Commission’s preliminary findings against TikTok under the DSA is a good step towards strong consumer protection

The Commission's findings confirm BEUC’s long-standing concerns about TikTok’s addictive design features. The initial findings show that TikTok failed to properly evaluate and limit the risks linked to features like infinite scroll, autoplay, push notifications, and its highly personalized recommendation system.  

BEUC welcomes the Commission’s conclusion that existing measures (e.g. screen time management tools and parental controls) are insufficient and do not effectively reduce harm. The Commission rightly notes that meaningful DSA compliance will require altering TikTok’s core design – by disabling key addictive features and introducing effective screen-time breaks. Importantly, the Commission acknowledged that addictive design can harm children and adults alike. 

Agustín Reyna, Director General of BEUC, commented:  

“It is good news that the Commission is taking action against TikTok for potentially breaking the Digital Services Act. This case shows the DSA's capacity to curb addictive designs, while also reinforces our long-standing warning that the EU rules need strengthening to address dark patterns and addictive design head-on. 

Reyna added: “Only strong enforcement will ensure that platforms take their responsibilities seriously and that consumers are fully protected against such practices. TikTok must now deliver real design changes, and the EU must ensure that upcoming legislation such as the Digital Fairness Act is used to close the remaining gaps in consumer protection.”