In brief
The European Union has told TikTok to overhauling its For You feed algorithm after finding it creates harmful rabbit holes that trap users. TikTok disputes the findings and says it already has safeguards. If the company fails to comply, the EU could impose fines up to 6 % of its EU revenue.
The European Union ordered TikTok to overhaul its For You feed algorithm on 6 November 2026, after finding that the platform’s recommendations create deep rabbit holes that trap users in endless loops of distressing content. The order follows the EU’s preliminary analysis that the algorithm repeatedly shows users sad, isolating or body‑image–focused videos whenever they scroll or like a video, making it hard for them to escape.
Henna Virkkunen
Every time a user scrolls or likes a video on TikTok, the algorithm serves more of the same, leading users down rabbit holes they cannot easily escape from.
The Commission warned that if TikTok does not comply, it could face fines of up to 6 % of the company’s revenue earned within the EU. TikTok has disputed the findings, calling them “fundamentally inaccurate” and saying it has already taken steps to protect users, especially minors.
The EU’s move comes after investigations in France, Spain and the United Kingdom that sought to safeguard minors from predatory behaviour, cyberbullying and mental‑health deterioration. Several countries have already introduced bans on social media for users under 15.
Both the EU and TikTok agreed to continue discussions to ensure the platform meets the Digital Services Act requirements and protects users’ well‑being.
