Micah Jonah, February 6, 2026
European Union regulators have formally charged TikTok with breaching the bloc’s online content rules, accusing the social media platform of using addictive design features that could harm users, particularly children and vulnerable adults.
The charges focus on core elements of TikTok’s design, including infinite scrolling, autoplay, push notifications and a highly personalised recommendation system that regulators say encourage compulsive use. Authorities warned that TikTok must change the design of its app in Europe or face fines of up to six percent of its parent company ByteDance’s global turnover.
The move follows a year long investigation under the Digital Services Act, which places stricter obligations on large online platforms to assess, reduce risks linked to illegal and harmful content.
Regulators said TikTok failed to properly evaluate how its features could affect users’ physical and mental wellbeing and did not take sufficient steps to address signs of excessive use, such as prolonged night time activity by minors and frequent app opening.
European officials argued that the platform generates a constant stream of new content that rewards users and keeps them scrolling, effectively pushing them into what was described as an autopilot mode. They also said TikTok did not adequately implement effective safeguards such as robust screen time controls or parental management tools.
EU tech chief, Henna Virkkunen said TikTok would be expected to make concrete changes to protect minors, including disabling infinite scroll over time, introducing meaningful screen break reminders and adjusting how its recommendation system operates. She added that investigations into other major platforms were progressing and that further decisions were expected in the coming months.
TikTok strongly rejected the accusations, describing the preliminary findings as categorically false, meritless, and said it would challenge the charges. The company has argued that its algorithm, which adapts to user interests, is central to its success and that it already provides tools aimed at user wellbeing.
The case highlights the European Union’s broader crackdown on major technology companies, a campaign that has drawn criticism from the United States and heightened global debate over regulation, free expression and digital safety.
Other platforms, including Facebook and Instagram, have previously been accused of using deceptive interface designs, while regulators have also sought information from companies such as Snapchat, YouTube, Apple and Google on age verification and child protection measures.
The action comes amid a growing international push to limit minors’ access to social media. Several European countries are considering tighter age restrictions, while some nations outside Europe have already introduced bans or strict limits for children and teenagers.
TikTok will now be allowed to review the Commission’s evidence, submit a written response before a final decision is taken.
