Europe Tightens Age-Check Rules as TikTok Rolls Out New Verification System
European regulators are escalating demands for TikTok to enhance its age-verification protocols, prompting the platform to deploy an automated detection system for underage users. The phased rollout follows a year of testing and aims to replace self-reported birthdates with algorithmic tools.
TikTok's hybrid approach combines machine learning with human review, attempting to balance compliance with data privacy concerns. This shift reflects broader global momentum, as governments from Australia to the UK implement stricter youth access controls for social platforms.
The EU's updated digital regulations now mandate transparent appeals processes and verifiable accuracy for automated moderation systems. ByteDance's disclosure to Reuters highlights the growing compliance burden facing multinational platforms operating in regulated markets.
