The European Commission points out that TikTok's algorithm and infinite scrolling may violate the Digital Services Act
The European Commission, the EU's executive body, has made a preliminary ruling that TikTok's algorithms, infinite scrolling, autoplay, and other features have a negative impact on the mental and physical health of young people and may violate the Digital Services Act (DSA).
Commission preliminarily finds TikTok's addictive design in breach of the Digital Services Act
TikTok could be forced to change app's 'addictive design' by European Commission | TikTok | The Guardian
EU says TikTok's algorithm, 'addictive design' likely illegal - UPI.com
https://www.upi.com/Top_News/World-News/2026/02/06/europe-commission-tiktok-addictive-illegal/7491770392540/
The preliminary findings are part of the European Commission's investigation into TikTok's compliance with the DSA, which began in February 2024.
European Commission launches investigation into TikTok as a child endangerment - GIGAZINE
The European Commission identified five areas as the focus of its investigation:
- There is a possibility that measures to prevent the ' rabbit hole phenomenon ,' in which algorithms lead users to extremist information, are insufficient.
Age verification tools to prevent underage users from accessing inappropriate content may not be working effectively.
- Default privacy settings for minor users may not comply with the privacy obligations required by the DSA.
- Not publishing a searchable repository of ads placed on the service
Access to public data is hindered, and transparency may be lacking.
In its preliminary findings, the European Commission said TikTok had failed to adequately assess how addictive features such as infinite scrolling, autoplay, push notifications and recommendation systems could harm the physical and mental health of users, including minors and vulnerable groups.
For example, constantly rewarding users with new content can encourage the urge to keep scrolling, putting the user's brain on autopilot and potentially reducing self-control.
The preliminary results do not require any immediate action from TikTok.
TikTok has completely denied the findings, saying, 'The preliminary findings make completely false and unfounded statements about TikTok,' and is expected to contest the results.
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