The Tiktok Lite app, which was launched in France and Spain earlier this month, has had its voluntary suspension of the reward program in response to concerns raised by the EU. Social media service Tiktok had introduced a rewards program aimed at users over 18 years old, where they could earn points by watching videos, liking content or following other users. These points could be exchanged for rewards such as Amazon discount coupons or Tiktok virtual coins.
However, the EU Commission asked Tiktok for information on how the company had assessed potential risks related to the rewards program, particularly regarding its impact on users’ mental health and addiction to the platform. Despite being given a deadline to provide this information, Tiktok did not meet it and an official investigation under the Digital Services Act was launched.
This is the second official procedure against Tiktok under the Digital Services Act, with the first procedure starting in February. The Act requires large online platforms to address issues such as the spread of illegal content, online disinformation and other social risks. Non-compliance with the Act can result in fines of up to six percent of a company’s global turnover.
In light of this scrutiny from the EU Commission, Tiktok has decided to suspend its reward program on the Tiktok Lite app in France and Spain. The company stated its commitment to working constructively with regulatory authorities to ensure compliance with regulations and address any potential risks associated with its services.
