TikTok Sued Over Use of Minors’ Data

TikTok Sued Over Use of Minors’ Data

Video-sharing social networking service TikTok is being sued for billions of dollars over its alleged mishandling of children's data. 





TikTok, which is owned by Chinese company ByteDance, has more than 800 million users worldwide. Internal company data from July 2020 reported by the New York Times showed 18 million TikTok users were aged 14 years or younger.





The claim against the company has been filed by Anne Longfield, children's commissioner for England, on behalf of the millions of minors in the UK and the EU who have used TikTok since May 25, 2018, whether they have a TikTok account or not. 





In the legal challenge, TikTok is accused of harvesting children's personal information without sufficient notice, transparency, or the consent required under British and European Union law. 





Children's data that the company allegedly mishandles includes biometric information, location data, videos, and phone numbers. 





If the claim is successful, minor users could each receive thousands of pounds. Children who used TikTok but who do not wish to be included in the suit can opt out of being represented. 





Longfield told the BBC that TikTok's data collection practices were "shadowy" and "excessive" compared to those of other social media companies.





"TikTok is a hugely popular social media platform that has helped children keep in touch with their friends during an incredibly difficult year. However, behind the fun songs, dance challenges and ..

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