Italy’s data protection authority, Garante Privacy, has asked Chinese video-sharing app TikTok for several additional commitments to prevent users aged under 13 from accessing the platform. In a statement, the watchdog confirmed that TikTok had removed over 500,000 accounts of users aged 12 or under since 09 February in response to the accidental death by asphyxiation of a 10-year-old girl who allegedly took part in a social media challenge. “The measures adopted have brought significant results but are still insufficient given the importance of the interests at stake,” said the regulator.
Garante Privacy has now called on TikTok to ensure any accounts linked to users under 13 within 48 hours, strengthen the blocking mechanisms on devices used by under-16-year-olds and find solutions, including those based on artificial intelligence, to minimise access for children.
Additional commitments include launching communications initiatives to educate users that the platform is not suitable for children under the age of 13, employ simpler language and visual methods to ensure that minors are aware of the new measures and update Garante on the effectiveness of the methods.
TikTok responded with a statement from its head of Child Safety, Europe, confirming that it has been in constant contact with the watchdog on further steps to support its community in Italy following the “significant impact” of its initial commitments. “We will continue to explore new opportunities to continue what started with additional measures,” said Alexandra Evans.
