Technology
TikTok sued on behalf of millions of European kids over data concerns
London: The popular Chinese video-sharing app TikTok is being sued for several billion pounds over allegations of illegally collecting private information of millions of children in the UK and Europe.
The former Children’s Commissioner for England, Anne Longfield claimed that TikTok collects a huge volume of personal information without sufficient consent, including phone numbers, pictures, videos, their physical location and biometric data.
Longfield alleged that every kid that has used TikTok since May 25, 2018, may have had private personal information illegally collected and transferred to unknown third parties for profit. Following which she launched a bombshell legal claim against the social media giant.
Stressing about the situation she said that parents and children have a right to know that their information is being illegally occupied.
“Affected children could receive thousands of pounds each if the claim is successful,” she added.
In response, TikTok said the case is without merit and it would fight it.
“We believe the claims lack merit and intend to vigorously defend the action," said TikTok.
The popular video-sharing app further stated that privacy and safety were the company's top priorities and it had robust policies to help protect all users, especially teenage users.
TikTok has over 800 million users worldwide and for the time being it is wildly popular video app.
The case has been filed in London's High Court and if the claim that has been filed on behalf of millions of children turned correct TikTok could face damages worth billions of pounds.
That case will be heard next week.