What harmful content did TikTok fail to check?

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TikTok Fined €10 Million by Italian Regulator for Failing to Adequately Check Harmful Content

Italy's antitrust regulator, the AGCM, has imposed a €10 million (US$10.94 million) fine on three TikTok units for insufficient oversight of content deemed potentially harmful to young or vulnerable users. The regulator found that TikTok did not implement adequate measures to curb the dissemination of such material and failed to fully adhere to its own stated guidelines, which had previously assured users of the platform's safety.
Dangerous "Challenges" Identified as a Risk

A significant concern highlighted by the AGCM involved specific types of content referred to as "challenges." These challenges, particularly those involving dangerous practices, were identified as posing a risk to minors and vulnerable individuals. The regulator specifically cited videos depicting a practice known as the "French scar," a challenge where users pinch their cheeks with the aim of creating a lasting bruise.
Algorithmic Amplification of Harmful Content

The AGCM also pointed to the role of profiling algorithms in the spread of this harmful content. It was noted that these algorithms can lead to undue conditioning of users, encouraging increased platform usage. This mechanism, according to the regulator, contributes to the wider dissemination of potentially dangerous material, even when specific content might be flagged or removed.
Previous Action by Italian Communications Authority

The issue of the "French scar" videos had previously come under scrutiny from another Italian regulatory body. Just last month, Italy's communications authority, AGCOM, mandated the removal of these specific videos from TikTok, indicating a prior awareness and concern regarding their presence and potential impact on users, particularly younger ones.

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What harmful content did TikTok fail to check?

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