TikTok faces strict EU compliance with DSA ruling

In a decisive move to ensure compliance with the Digital Services Act (DSA), TikTok has agreed to permanently discontinue its TikTok Lite Rewards program in the European Union. The European Commission announced today that these commitments by TikTok have now become legally binding, marking a significant development in the enforcement of the DSA. The formal proceedings against TikTok, initiated by the Commission on April 22, highlighted concerns over potential breaches of regulatory standards.

In response, TikTok submitted a set of commitments to the Commission, which included the permanent withdrawal of the TikTok Lite Rewards program from EU territories and a pledge not to introduce any similar programs that could circumvent this withdrawal. Today’s decision by the European Commission not only enforces these commitments but also closes the proceedings against TikTok that began over three months ago. This closure signifies the first case resolved under the DSA since its inception, setting a precedent for future regulatory actions against digital platforms.

Any violation of these commitments by TikTok will now constitute a direct breach of the DSA, potentially resulting in significant fines for the social media giant. The decision underscores the Commission’s dedication to enforcing compliance among online platforms designated under the DSA. This resolution comes 105 days after the formal proceedings were opened, marking a critical milestone in the Commission’s regulatory efforts. It also represents the first instance where the Commission has accepted binding commitments from an online platform under formal review.

The Commission has expressed its intention to rigorously monitor TikTok’s adherence to these commitments. This oversight will extend to all obligations that TikTok holds under the DSA, ensuring that the platform remains in full compliance with EU regulations. With today’s ruling, the European Commission reaffirms its role in safeguarding digital space integrity, emphasizing that regulatory compliance is not optional but mandatory for all operating within the EU.