TikTok to Lay Off Hundreds in London as AI Reshapes Content Moderation

TikTok is preparing to cut several hundred jobs in its London trust and safety team, with automation and AI-driven content moderation cited as the primary drivers. The MOVE aligns with broader industry trends as tech companies adapt to regulatory pressures like the UK's Online Safety Act, which mandates stricter controls over harmful content.

The affected employees, primarily in moderation and quality assurance roles, were notified via email about the proposed changes. TikTok plans to consolidate operational expertise in specific hubs while expanding AI capabilities—a shift that could extend to teams in South and Southeast Asia.

Regulatory compliance and cost efficiency appear central to the decision. The UK's legislation imposes heavy fines for failure to curb dangerous material, accelerating the push toward algorithmic solutions. A town-hall meeting with staff is scheduled to address the reorganization.