TikTok Fined $530 Million for Data Transfer to China

By Netvora Tech News

The Irish privacy regulator, DPC, has slapped TikTok with a €530 million fine for transferring user data to China and failing to properly inform users. The company has been ordered to bring its data processing into compliance with European regulations within six months. During the investigation, TikTok initially denied storing European users' data on servers in China. However, it later admitted that some data was indeed being stored on Chinese servers. According to the Irish Data Protection Commission, ByteDance employees in China have access to European users' data, raising concerns about the security and potential misuse of this sensitive information.

Data Protection Violations

TikTok's parent company, ByteDance, failed to demonstrate that user data in China is adequately protected. The company also failed to provide clear notice to users that their personal data is being transferred to China. ByteDance employees in China can still access European users' data, for example, to maintain the TikTok app.

AP Concerns

Monique Verdier, vice chair of the AP, warned that TikTok's data collection practices are concerning. "If you're on TikTok, that platform knows a lot about you. If you're a child who watches a lot of videos about depression or eating disorders, TikTok's algorithm could conclude that you might not be feeling well," she said. "TikTok can see who your friends are, what comments you leave on their videos, and where you are – TikTok can track you. That sensitive information needs to be well-protected. And TikTok is not doing that." The fine and the company's obligation to bring its data processing into compliance are a significant blow to TikTok's reputation and a warning to other tech companies operating in the European market.