Investigation focuses specifically on whether EU data was stored in China.
A fresh investigation has been launched into TikTok over the alleged storage of European user data on servers in China,
The new inquiry by the Irish Data Protection Commission focuses specifically on whether EU data was stored in China, an issue not covered in the earlier investigation, which centred on data access by TikTok's China-based employees.
TikTok had denied such storage during a previous four-year probe but later admitted that some data had briefly been stored in China earlier this year and was subsequently deleted.
TikTok is currently appealing the earlier DPC decision, warning that it could set a wide-reaching precedent for international firms.
Meanwhile, the UK's First-tier Tribunal has affirmed the ICO's authority to fine TikTok, clearing the way for a potential £12.7 million penalty over violations of the UK's data protection laws.
John Edwards, UK Information Commissioner said: "I welcome the First-tier Tribunal’s decision. It is a significant step forward in our being able to hold TikTok, and other similar platforms, to account for how they use people’s information, particularly children’s, when providing their online services.
“This isn’t just a successful outcome for the ICO – it’s a win for the public and allows us to continue to safeguard and protect children across the digital world.”
Written by
Dan Raywood is a B2B journalist with 25 years of experience, including covering cybersecurity for the past 17 years. He has extensively covered topics from Advanced Persistent Threats and nation-state hackers to major data breaches and regulatory changes.
He has spoken at events including 44CON, Infosecurity Europe, RANT Forum, BSides Scotland, Steelcon and the National Cyber Security Show, and served as editor of SC Media UK, Infosecurity Magazine and IT Security Guru. He was also an analyst with 451 Research and a product marketing lead at Tenable.
