TikTok, the popular video-sharing platform, is facing significant repercussions from the Italian antitrust regulator, which has imposed a hefty fine of approximately $10.94 million. The fine comes in response to TikTok’s alleged failure to adequately protect children and vulnerable individuals from harmful content circulating on its platform.
According to a statement released by the Italian Competition Authority (AGCM), TikTok has been criticized for its lack of effective mechanisms to monitor and regulate content, particularly content that poses risks to minors and vulnerable users.
The investigation into TikTok’s practices was initiated by the Italian regulator last March, following concerns about the proliferation of videos depicting self-harming behavior among young people. Of particular concern was a trend known as the “French Scar” challenge, which gained traction on TikTok and involved individuals inflicting lasting bruises on their cheekbones through continuous and forceful squeezing of the skin.
In its findings, the AGCM confirmed TikTok’s role in disseminating content that could endanger the psycho-physical safety of users, including videos associated with the “French Scar” challenge.
Responding to the regulator’s decision, TikTok expressed disagreement and contested the findings. A spokesperson for the company highlighted that the volume of searches for “French Scar” content in Italy was relatively low before the AGCM initiated its investigation, suggesting that the platform’s impact may have been overstated.
As TikTok grapples with the fallout from the fine imposed by the Italian antitrust regulator, questions arise about the platform’s responsibility to safeguard its users, particularly minors and vulnerable individuals, from harmful content. The incident underscores the growing scrutiny facing social media platforms and their obligation to prioritize user safety and well-being.