A new report by Mozilla reveals that users of TikTok Lite, a pared-down version of the popular social media app, are at risk of encountering harmful content. The findings raise significant concerns about the safety and content moderation practices of the app, particularly in regions with limited internet infrastructure. Mozilla Foundation raises concerns about the TikTok Lite app, stating that it lacks many of the safety features present in the main TikTok app, such as the labeling of AI-generated content.
TikTok Lite is designed to offer a streamlined version of the widely used TikTok app. By consuming less data and functioning efficiently on lower-end devices, its main purpose is to cater to users in areas with slower internet speeds or limited data access. However, despite its simplified interface and reduced functionality, the app still provides access to the same vast array of content available on the main TikTok platform.
The internet nonprofit and algorithm watchdog reported that TikTok Lite lacks important features such as content filtering, warning labels, and screen-time controls, which are crucial for limiting misinformation and tech addiction. The report, released on July 20, accused TikTok of neglecting users outside the US and the European Union with its TikTok Lite app.
“Our research revealed TikTok Lite lacks basic protections afforded to other TikTok users, including content labels for graphic, AI-generated, misinformation and dangerous acts videos,” the report said.
The Foundation warns that in countries where TikTok Lite is commonly used, the absence of these safety features could have “potentially dangerous consequences” for elections and public health.
Although TikTok Lite makes up nearly half of the platform’s global user base, it provides users with less control over what they see and doesn’t warn them about potentially harmful, dangerous, or offensive content, according to the groups.
The report from the tech firms also criticized the app for not effectively managing misinformation. It pointed out that the “context tool banners” feature found on the main TikTok app is missing from TikTok Lite.
TikTok disputed the accuracy of the report, with a spokesperson saying that, “the report contains several factual inaccuracies that fundamentally misrepresent our approach to safety.”
TikTok stated that it prioritizes user safety and has set up eight regional Safety Advisory Councils, including in Asia Pacific, Brazil, Latin America, and the Middle East and North Africa. The company also highlighted that the main TikTok app is accessible in all the countries where TikTok Lite is available.
Despite this, the Mozilla Foundation and AI Forensics report noted that TikTok Lite’s limited user controls have created major hurdles for its launch in Europe, supporting their claims of double standards in user treatment.
In April, the European Commission threatened to shut down a TikTok Lite rewards service in Europe, prompting the company to voluntarily suspend the service in the region for the time being.
The findings in Mozilla’s report underscore the need for improved safety measures and content moderation in TikTok Lite. As more users in developing regions turn to such apps for entertainment and social interaction, it is crucial to ensure that these platforms offer a safe and secure environment.
TikTok isn’t the only major platform with a version designed for users outside the US and Europe. Facebook, Google, Tinder, and YouTube have also launched scaled-down versions. Mozilla highlighted in its findings, referencing a report from February on elections, that platforms often implement fewer policies in regions with a Global Majority.
As social media platforms continue to evolve and expand, ensuring user safety remains a top priority. Mozilla’s report highlights important areas where TikTok Lite can improve to protect its users from harmful content. By addressing these issues, TikTok Lite can better serve its global audience while maintaining a safer online environment