NAIROBI, Kenya – Kenya has demanded that TikTok demonstrate its compliance with local privacy and user verification laws, citing concerns over the platform’s role in spreading propaganda, fraud, and explicit content. As regulators worldwide put pressure on social media companies to protect users from harmful content and criminal activities, the Kenyan government has contacted TikTok through the office of the Data Protection Commissioner to address these issues.
Interior Minister Kithure Kindiki informed a parliamentary committee that criminals have utilized TikTok to disseminate malicious propaganda and conduct fraudulent activities, including stealing popular accounts through identity theft and impersonation. Moreover, Kenyans have been scammed through fake forex trades and job recruitments facilitated by the platform. Kindiki emphasized that these risks have had negative impacts, causing distress to users, exposing minors to inappropriate content, and fostering discord among citizens.
While TikTok, owned by Chinese company ByteDance, has defended its privacy practices against similar criticism in other countries, it is now facing scrutiny in Kenya. The concerns raised by Kindiki reflect broader problems inherent in social media platforms, according to Odanga Madung, a researcher at the nonprofit Mozilla Foundation. Madung acknowledges that while TikTok attracts attention, the issue extends beyond a single app. He believes that the Kenyan government is justified in demanding transparency regarding TikTok’s moderation practices.
The challenges faced by TikTok are not unique to Kenya. Just last week, Italy’s competition watchdog fined three units of TikTok a total of 10 million euros for inadequate content checks that could harm young or vulnerable users. In the United States, the company also faces a potential ban within six months unless its Chinese owners divest, as proposed under a draft bill approved by the U.S. House of Representatives.
As pressure mounts on TikTok to address these concerns, the Kenyan government seeks assurances that the platform will adhere to local privacy and user verification laws. By advocating for transparency and accountability, Kenya aims to safeguard its citizens from harmful online activities. However, the outcomes of this regulatory scrutiny will have implications beyond TikTok, influencing the broader landscape of social media platforms and their responsibility to protect users worldwide.