FTC, DOJ Sue TikTok for Alleged COPPA Violations

The FTC and Justice Department are taking legal action against TikTok and its parent company, ByteDance, for allegedly violating COPPA, a law protecting children`s online privacy. The FTC claims TikTok knew about COPPA requirements but still allowed underage users on its platform for years, even after a previous settlement addressing similar violations. Despite internal concerns and policy changes, TikTok allegedly continued collecting and using data from underage users, including for targeted advertising. The FTC also criticizes TikTok`s Kids Mode for excessive data collection and the platform`s difficult account deletion process for parents. The FTC asserts its commitment to protecting children`s online privacy and holding companies accountable for data practices that put children at risk.