TikTok Is Addictive and Risks Huge Fines Without Urgent Change, EU Says

The European Commission has officially accused TikTok of building its algorithm with the purpose of keeping users hooked.

In fact, the Commission says that the app’s main features actually push people into compulsive use and threaten their mental wellbeing, making it especially dangerous for minors.

Why the EU Targeted TikTok

Preliminary findings published under the Digital Services Act claim that TikTok’s design has breached EU rules requiring platforms to assess and reduce systemic risks.

The investigation focused on features users see during everyday use. Infinite scrolling removes natural stopping points, autoplay eliminates choice and push notifications pull users back without warning.

A highly personalized recommendation system then amplifies the effect by serving content that triggers repeated engagement.

“For example, by constantly ‘rewarding' users with new content, certain design features of TikTok fuel the urge to keep scrolling and shift the brain of users into ‘autopilot mode'. Scientific research shows that this may lead to compulsive behaviour and reduce users' self-control,” according to the findings.

TikTok “disregarded important indicators of compulsive use of the app, such as the time that minors spend on TikTok at night, the frequency with which users open the app, and other potential indicators,” the regulators said.

TikTok’s safeguards are apparently failing

The Commission said it is TikTok’s duty to implement reasonable, proportionate and effective measures that could ease these risks and the addictiveness of the design.

TikTok points to screen-time tools and parental controls as proof of responsibility, but the Commission disagrees and claims that screen-time management tools and parental control tools are not effective.

“The time management tools do not seem to be effective in enabling users to reduce and control their use of TikTok because they are easy to dismiss and introduce limited friction. Similarly, parental controls may not be effective because they require additional time and skills from parents to introduce the controls,” the Commission added.

What happens next

The findings are still preliminary and do not determine the outcome of the case.

It’s clear, however, that TikTok needs to change the basic design of its service, starting with a simple change like removing “infinite scroll.”

The investigation gathered extensive evidence by reviewing TikTok’s internal data and documents. Investigators analyzed risk assessment reports and responses to formal information requests. They also used scientific studies and interviews with experts in behavioral addiction.

If the Commission confirms the conclusions, TikTok could face penalties of up to 6% of its global revenue. That would set a landmark precedent under the Digital Services Act.

How Bitdefender helps users regain control

While regulators push platforms to change, users still need protection today. Bitdefender solutions like Parental Control, which comes included, help people reduce digital risk and regain control over their online lives.

• Advanced parental controls help protect children from excessive screen time and harmful content
• Privacy and security tools block invasive tracking and abusive notifications
• Device protection limits the impact of data-hungry apps and risky permissions
• Real-time threat detection keeps users safe while they navigate social platforms

FAQ: TikTok and addiction

1. Has the EU found that TikTok is addictive?
   The Commission issued preliminary findings that clearly point in this direction. The investigation continues.
2. Which TikTok features are affected?
   Infinite scroll, autoplay, push notifications and personalized recommendations.
3. Why does the EU focus on minors?
   Because addictive design affects children and vulnerable users more severely.
4. Can TikTok avoid fines?
   Yes. The company can implement meaningful design changes that reduce compulsive use.
5. Will other platforms face similar action?
   Yes. The Digital Services Act applies to all very large online platforms.