Canadian privacy officials raise concerns over TikTok’s collection of children’s data

An investigation led by Privacy Commissioner of Canada Philippe Dufresne and privacy protection officials found that short-video platform TikTok collected sensitive personal data from children and stated that the platform takes inadequate measures to prevent them from using the app, the BBC reported.

The Canadian investigation also found that hundreds of thousands of children gain access to TikTok every year, despite the company stating the app is intended for users over 13, while the personal information of many of them is used for marketing and content targeting purposes.

In turn, TikTok said it welcomed the investigation and added that Canadian authorities supported several proposals aimed at strengthening the platform, though a spokesperson noted that they disagreed with some findings.