In brief
The EU is investigating TikTok for potential foreign interference during the recent Romanian presidential election, following revelations of 25,000 newly activated accounts on the platform. These accounts supported independent candidate Calin Georgescu, a far-right figure who has controversial views on Russia and denied any association with it. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the need for accountability in online platforms to protect democracies from external influence. The investigation will explore TikTok's advertising practices and its content recommendation system to determine if they violate the Digital Services Act aimed at controlling disinformation. TikTok has contested the allegations, stating it treats all candidates equally and has reacted promptly to flagged content. This inquiry, prioritized by the EU, coincides with ongoing investigations into TikTok's compliance with safeguarding minors and harmful content online.
EU Launches Investigation into TikTok for Alleged Russian Interference in Romanian Elections The European Union's inquiry targets TikTok amid concerns of foreign manipulation impacting Romania's presidential vote. The EU is investigating TikTok for potential foreign interference during the recent Romanian presidential election, following revelations of 25,000 newly activated accounts on the platform. These accounts supported independent candidate Calin Georgescu, a far-right figure who has controversial views on Russia and denied any association with it. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the need for accountability in online platforms to protect democracies from external influence. The investigation will explore TikTok's advertising practices and its content recommendation system to determine if they violate the Digital Services Act aimed at controlling disinformation. TikTok has contested the allegations, stating it treats all candidates equally and has reacted promptly to flagged content. This inquiry, prioritized by the EU, coincides with ongoing investigations into TikTok's compliance with safeguarding minors and harmful content online.
