Ofcom launches TikTok investigation over age check tech

UK media regulator Ofcom has launched a formal investigation into TikTok, examining whether the platform is doing enough to keep children off its service and away from harmful content. The probe targets the core mechanisms the social media giant uses to verify user identities.

At the centre of the investigation is TikTok’s reliance on "age inference" technology. This method estimates a user's age by analysing their behaviour on the app, such as the videos they watch or the accounts they interact with, rather than using hard identity verification.

Regulators have signalled that behavioural algorithms may no longer suffice to meet legal standards. "We have very serious questions about whether age inference can be highly effective," said Kate Davies, Ofcom's group director for strategy and research. She noted that some current methods used by social media are simply not working well enough.

The regulatory challenge poses significant operational and financial implications for social media companies. UK law requires platforms to deploy "highly effective" methods to prevent underage users from accessing harmful material. If Ofcom determines that behavioural tracking fails this standard, platforms may be forced to adopt more expensive verification methods like facial scans.

TikTok has defended its current systems and its financial commitment to safety. "We're confident that we meet our Online Safety Act obligations and will work with Ofcom to demonstrate it," a company spokesperson said. The company noted it has invested "billions" in online safety since launching in the UK eight years ago.

The investigation reflects a broader regulatory tightening that impacts the entire social media sector. Instagram also deploys age inference tools to identify children lying about their age. "We strictly enforce age-appropriate experiences through expert-informed platform rules and advanced age inference technologies, in line with major industry peers," the TikTok spokesperson added.

Ofcom has already demonstrated its willingness to penalise non-compliance under the Protection of Children's Codes, which took effect last July. The regulator has issued large fines against dozens of adult sites for failing to use strict checks like face scans. Moving that enforcement action to mainstream social media platforms signals a new era of compliance costs for the tech industry.