TikTok faces preliminary EU charges for mental health failures

The European Commission has formally accused TikTok of failing to shield users from mental health risks associated with its content delivery system. A preliminary ruling issued on Friday asserts that the platform's algorithm exposes viewers to a relentless stream of material that can exacerbate anxiety and eating disorders. The finding targets the core mechanics of TikTok's short-video service, which serves 189 million users across the European Union.

Commission officials stated that while individual videos may be legally compliant, the cumulative effect of viewing numerous similar clips can harm vulnerable users. The investigation identified that TikTok's safeguards against so-called rabbit hole effects, where the algorithm narrows content to keep users engaged, were ineffective. For instance, regulators noted that selecting a 'not interested' option on a video regarding eating patterns did not stop the platform from recommending similar diet and body image content. Refreshing the feed was also found to provide only a temporary break from such thematic streams.

Henna Virkkunen, the commission's lead official on technology policy, described the algorithm as potentially harmful. She stated that every scroll or like leads users down paths they cannot easily exit. 'TikTok needs to step up its efforts to protect users' wellbeing, including those of minors,' Virkkunen said. A commission official told reporters that the probe addresses a business model focused on engagement, which can create risks for young and vulnerable adults.

TikTok has been contacted for comment regarding the new charges. The company previously contested similar findings in December 2024, calling them a false depiction of the platform and vowing to challenge them. That earlier investigation focused on addictive design features like infinite scroll. Separately, a dispute over advertising transparency was resolved last December when TikTok agreed to binding policy changes.

The current case is part of a broader inquiry launched in February 2024 under the Digital Services Act. This legislation requires large internet companies to prevent various harms, including disinformation and mental health damage. The commission now seeks to have TikTok redesign its For You feed to give users greater control over what they see.

TikTok currently has the opportunity to review the investigation file and prepare a defense. The company may agree to modify its recommender system to avoid penalties. If the preliminary finding is upheld, TikTok could face a fine of up to 6% of its global turnover.