Italy orders probe into TikTok over dangerous content

Pallade Veneta - Italy orders probe into TikTok over dangerous content

Italy orders probe into TikTok over dangerous content / Photo: DENIS CHARLET - AFP

Italy's competition watchdog said Tuesday it had opened an investigation into video app TikTok for failing to enforce its own rules on removing "dangerous content" related to suicide and self-harm.

Change text size:

The Italian Competition Authority said its probe, which targets Irish company TikTok Technology Limited, a subsidiary of Chinese-owned TikTok, was sparked by videos of young people "adopting self-harming behaviour", including the "French scar challenge".

In the challenge, children pinch their cheeks violently to create bruising, a phenomenon explained by numerous tutorials on TikTok that has caused concern in the education and health sectors.

The watchdog said it had carried out an inspection of the Italian headquarters of TikTok on Tuesday with the help of financial police.

"The guidelines of the companies who own the platform, which envision the removal of dangerous content that instigate suicide, self-harm and unhealthy nutrition, are not applied," said the watchdog in a statement.

It accused the platform of failing to set up adequate monitoring systems, especially given the many "particularly vulnerable" minors who used it.

AFP requested comment from TikTok, but it did not immediately respond.

Western authorities have been taking an increasingly firm approach to TikTok, owned by Chinese parent company ByteDance, over fears that user data could be used or abused by Chinese officials.

Following in the footsteps of the United States and the European Union, the UK on Thursday banned the application on government devices.

The app, which boasts more than one billion active users, is regularly accused of spreading disinformation, putting users in danger with hazardous "challenge" videos, and allowing pornography, even though it is supposed to prohibit nudity.

Several children have also reportedly died while trying to replicate the so-called blackout challenge, which involves users holding their breath until they pass out.

F.Abruzzese--PV

John Schneider Admits Owes Millions in 'Dukes of Hazzard' Divorce Battle

'Dukes of Hazzard' actor John Schneider has formally acknowledged a debt of roughly $3.7 million in back spousal support to his ex-wife, Elvira Schneider, marking a shift in their ongoing divorce proceedings. While admitting the financial obligation, Schneider is contesting a court order that would divert half of his Social Security benefits to satisfy the arrears.

Philippine Authorities Report Progress in Thomas Markle Sr. Child Pornography Probe

Philippine authorities have confirmed that their investigation into Thomas Markle Sr.’s alleged possession of child pornography is progressing, with Acting Director Pmgen Wilson Casueta stating the probe is moving in the "right direction." The inquiry follows allegations by Markle’s son, Thomas Jr., who reported finding graphic materials at his father’s Cebu City residence.

Doha hotel and Carolina Herrera launch fragrance-inspired afternoon tea

Waldorf Astoria Doha Lusail announces an exclusive collaboration with Carolina Herrera, bringing together the world of luxury fragrance and the art of afternoon tea in a distinctive experience at Peacock Alley. Inspired by the best-sellers from the Herrera Confidential collection, Cedar Chic, and Stallion Leather Suede, and the novelty Peccato Nobile, the limited-edition afternoon tea brings the character of each fragrance to life through an elegant collection of sweet and savory creations.

Pallade Veneta - Italy orders probe into TikTok over dangerous content