UK regulator investigates TikTok's child safety systems
Ofcom, the UK communications regulator, opened an investigation into TikTok on 16 July 2026 regarding whether the platform's age verification systems adequately protect children from harmful content. The investigation, which could result in fines of up to 10% of TikTok's global revenues, follows previous enforcement actions against the platform for child safety and data protection violations.
What happened
On 16 July 2026, Ofcom announced an investigation into TikTok to determine whether it has failed to meet obligations to protect children from exposure to harmful content, particularly regarding the effective use of age verification systems to properly identify whether a user is a child.
TikTok faces potential fines of up to 10% of the company's global revenues if found to have breached its legal obligations. The investigation follows previous enforcement actions, including a fine of nearly £2 million two years ago for failing to provide timely information about parental control safety features, and a £12.7 million fine from the UK Information Commissioner's Office for unlawful use of children's personal data.
Reported impact
The UK strengthened its child safety online legislation in the previous year with a law aimed at preventing minors' exposure to content related to suicide, self-harm, eating disorders, and pornography, among other harms.
Index analysis
Ofcom stated that opening an investigation does not mean the regulator has concluded that the provider failed to meet its obligations.
Governance controls
TikTok responded that it is committed to ensuring age-appropriate experiences and is confident it complies with UK law obligations, and stated it will cooperate with Ofcom to demonstrate this.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.