TikTok Halts ‘Lite’ Rewards in EU to Meet Tech Regulations

TikTok has permanently ended its TikTok Lite rewards program in the European Union. This move was made to comply with the European Union’s Digital Services Act (DSA). The European Commission confirmed this decision.

The TikTok Lite rewards program allowed users to earn points by performing various tasks. These tasks included watching videos, liking content, following creators, and inviting friends to join the platform. The rewards could be redeemed for various incentives, which made the program very popular among users​ (9to5Mac)​​ (Tech Xplore)​.

In April, the EU required TikTok to conduct an immediate risk assessment of the app. This was due to concerns about its potential impact on children’s mental health and overall user well-being. The demand came shortly after TikTok Lite’s launch in France and Spain​ (Tech Xplore)​.

The DSA requires major online platforms to report potential risks of new features to the EU before their launch. These platforms must also take effective measures to mitigate identified risks. TikTok has now made legally binding commitments to withdraw the rewards program from the EU. It has also agreed not to launch any similar programs that could circumvent this decision​ (9to5Mac)​​ (Tech Xplore)​.

Any breach of these commitments will be considered a violation of the DSA. Such breaches could lead to significant fines for TikTok. The European Commission emphasized that adherence to these commitments is crucial for compliance with the DSA​ (9to5Mac)​​ (Tech Xplore)​.

An ongoing investigation into TikTok’s compliance with online content regulations continues. These regulations aim to protect children and ensure transparent advertising. The investigation, which started in February, focuses on whether TikTok breached rules designed to safeguard children and maintain clear advertising practices​ (9to5Mac)​​ (Tech Xplore)​. This probe puts TikTok at risk of facing hefty fines.

TikTok is also under scrutiny in other regions. In the United States, the company faces potential bans and legal challenges. A bill to ban TikTok cleared the US Congress, and the company is fighting this legislation in court, arguing that it infringes on free speech rights​ (9to5Mac)​​ (Tech Xplore)​.

The pressure on TikTok highlights the broader regulatory challenges that tech companies face globally. Ensuring compliance with regional laws and addressing concerns about user safety and data privacy are becoming increasingly important for these platforms​ (Tech Xplore)​.