Britain’s media regulator launched a formal investigation into TikTok on Thursday, examining whether the platform’s UK operation has failed — or is currently failing — to shield children from harmful online content.
The probe arrives just one month after the British government enacted a sweeping ban on social media access for users under the age of 16, while also placing new restrictions on gaming and live-streaming platforms.
Here is what you need to know about the investigation:
The regulator, known as Ofcom, will look into whether TikTok has adequate systems in place to identify when a user is a child and whether the platform has sufficient safeguards to stop minors from being exposed to harmful material.
Back in May, Ofcom had already flagged concerns, stating that TikTok had not outlined any meaningful actions to protect children in the United Kingdom from dangerous online content.
Ofcom was careful to note that opening an investigation does not indicate any conclusion has been reached about whether TikTok has actually violated its legal responsibilities.
As of the time of this report, TikTok had not responded to a request for comment on the matter.
