Privacy watchdogs say TikToks efforts to protect kids were inadequate

Federal and provincial privacy authorities say TikTok’s efforts to keep children off the platform and prevent the collection and use of their sensitive personal information were “inadequate.” The privacy watchdogs released the results of their joint investigation into TikTok today. They say that while the platform isn’t meant for kids under 13, they found hundreds of thousands of Canadian children use TikTok each year and the company collects and uses their personal information. The investigation looked into whether TikTok complies with Canadian privacy legislation and whether “valid and meaningful” consent is being obtained, with a focus on how TikTok’s privacy practices apply to children and youths. The privacy authorities say TikTok has agreed to strengthen its communications on privacy measures and enhance the use of age-assurance methods to ensure underage users don’t access the platform. Privacy and safety concerns have swirled around TikTok and its Chinese parent company, ByteDance because of Chinese national security laws that compel domestic organizations to assist with intelligence gathering. Story by Anja Karadeglija Continue Reading