Advocates Say TikTok Is Collecting Kids’ Data Without Consent, Violating 2019 Order

TikTok is still collecting children’s personal data without parental consent, privacy advocates wrote the FTC Thursday, demanding an investigation. The Campaign for a Commercial-Free Childhood, Center for Digital Democracy and some 20 organizations said TikTok is violating its 2019 order with the agency, which included a $5.7 million fine due to apparent Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act violations (see 1902270059). The company failed to delete data collected before the 2019 order and hasn’t given parents access to review or delete personal information, the groups alleged. The FTC confirmed receiving the complaint. “We take privacy seriously and are committed to helping ensure that TikTok continues to be a safe and entertaining community for our users,” emailed a spokesperson for the platform.