UK investigates TikTok, Reddit over child data collection

The UK Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) said it would look into how TikTok uses the personal data of users aged 13 to 17 to recommend content. In addition, online forum Reddit and image-sharing site Imgur are also under investigation, regarding how the platforms mine personal information and manage age limits, Reuters reported on March 3.

“The responsibility for keeping children safe online lies squarely with the companies that provide these services and we remain steadfast in our commitment to holding them to account,” said ICO Commissioner John Edwards. The ICO said it would speak to companies if it found any breaches of the law, before making a final decision.

Meanwhile, TikTok asserted that the company has comprehensive measures in place to protect the privacy and safety of teens, including features that limit age-appropriate content.

A Reddit spokesperson said the company has been working with the ICO and will comply with all relevant regulations when operating in the country. "The majority of our users are adults, however we plan to implement changes this year to address updates to UK regulations regarding age assurance," Reddit said in a statement.

Britain passed legislation last year that places tougher regulations on social media platforms, including preventing children from accessing harmful and age-inappropriate content by enforcing age restrictions and strengthening age checks.

Platforms like Facebook, Instagram and TikTok have been asked to adjust their algorithms to remove or reduce harmful content to protect children. In 2023, the ICO fined TikTok $16 million for using children's data without parental consent.