UK Investigates TikTok, Reddit, and Imgur Over Children’s Data Privacy

The UK’s Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has launched an investigation into how TikTok, Reddit, and Imgur handle children’s personal data.

The privacy watchdog is assessing whether these platforms comply with UK data protection laws and whether their practices put young users at risk.

The investigation will examine TikTok’s use of personal data from users aged 13 to 17 to recommend content. Social media platforms use algorithms to keep users engaged by suggesting similar content, but concerns have been raised that these systems could amplify harmful material to young audiences.

Previously, a study found that TikTok’s algorithm could suggest eating disorder and self-harm content to teenage users within minutes of joining the platform. The ICO wants to ensure that the app’s recommendation system does not expose children to harmful or inappropriate content.

The ICO is also investigating Reddit and Imgur to determine how they verify the ages of their users and whether they effectively enforce age restrictions. Many platforms require users to confirm their age when signing up, but there are concerns that simple self-declaration may not be sufficient.

A Reddit spokesperson stated that most of their users are adults but acknowledged that the company is planning to introduce age verification measures to comply with updated UK regulations. Imgur has not yet responded to the investigation.

If the ICO finds that any of the platforms have violated UK data protection laws, they may face fines or enforcement actions. In 2023, TikTok was fined £12.7 million ($16 million) for collecting data from children under 13 without parental consent.

UK Information Commissioner John Edwards emphasized that the investigation is not targeting any one company specifically but is meant to ensure industry-wide compliance with children’s data protection laws.

“We are patrolling, and there will be consequences for breaches of the law,” Edwards said.

The investigation is ongoing, and the ICO will allow the platforms to respond before making a final decision.

With input from Reuters, BBC, and Sky News.