TikTok, which is already fighting a proposed law that could lead to a ban on the app in the US, may soon be in the spotlight of the Federal Trade Commission. The FTC is close to concluding a multi-year investigation into the company, which could result in lawsuits or large fines. Politics .
The investigation reportedly focused on the app’s privacy and security practices, including the handling of children’s user data. according to Politics, the FTC is investigating potential violations of the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA), as well as “allegations that the company misled its users by telling them that individuals in China did not have access to US user data.” TikTok can also be penalized for violating the 2019 terms with data privacy regulators.
While it’s unclear whether the FTC’s investigation will result in a lawsuit or other action, the probe is another source of pressure for the company as it tries to secure its future in its biggest market. The bill would force TikTok’s parent company ByteDance to sell the app or face an outright ban in the US. So is the Biden Administration, which is trying to pressure ByteDance to divest from TikTok event and there are US intelligence officials lawmakers about the alleged national security risks posed by the app.
TikTok did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
