European Commission Orders TikTok to Revise Algorithm Due to 'Addictive Design' Concerns
The European Commission has issued a directive to TikTok, requiring the social media platform to alter its algorithm, which has been deemed 'addictive by design.' This decision follows an investigation under the Digital Services Act, a regulation aimed at holding large online platforms accountable for their content moderation practices. The Commission identified several features of TikTok's algorithm, such as infinite scroll, autoplay, and personalized recommendations, as potentially harmful to users' mental and physical well-being, particularly minors and vulnerable adults. TikTok faces the possibility of fines up to 6% of its annual global turnover if it fails to comply. The platform has been criticized for its ability to keep users engaged in endless scrolling cycles, a design choice that has been replicated by other social media platforms. 
