EU Commission Alleges TikTok Design Is Intentionally Addictive

The European Commission has formally accused TikTok of breaching the EU’s Digital Services Act (DSA) by using an “addictive design” that harms the mental and physical wellbeing of users, particularly children and vulnerable people.

Regulators say features such as infinite scrolling, autoplay, push notifications, and a highly personalised AI-driven recommender system are engineered to maximise time spent on the app rather than consider users’ negative experiences. The commission argues these elements push users into an “autopilot” mode, encouraging compulsive behaviour and reducing self-control.

The investigation, launched in February 2024, found that TikTok failed to properly assess and mitigate the risks of these features, ignored warning signs of excessive use (including late-night usage by minors), and did not implement effective, proportionate safeguards. Parental controls and screen-time tools were also deemed insufficient due to their ease of bypass and limited friction.

If the preliminary findings are upheld, TikTok could face fines of up to 6% of its global annual revenue. The commission recommends phasing out key addictive features like infinite scroll and introducing stronger, mandatory screen-time breaks, including overnight lockouts.

TikTok has strongly rejected the allegations, calling the findings “categorically false” and pointing to tools such as screen-time limits, sleep reminders, meditation prompts, Family Pairing controls, and age-based notification restrictions. The company also cites research suggesting no clear consensus that screen time alone directly harms children’s mental health.

TikTok will now have the opportunity to review the evidence and submit a written response before a final decision is made.

The possible repercussions are is that TikTok has been given the chance to address these conclusions. If the accusations are verified: 

• Forced Design Changes: TikTok may be forced by the EU to modify its recommendation system and turn off limitless scroll.
• Huge Fines: The platform may be subject to fines equal to up to 6% of its yearly global revenue. 

A representative for TikTok responded by calling the results a “categorically false and entirely meritless depiction” of the platform and said the company will appeal the decision.