The Hungarian Competition Authority (GVH) has initiated a follow-up investigation into TikTok Technology Limited, the European operator of the globally popular video-sharing platform. This investigation stems from commitments made by TikTok following a previous inquiry concluded in November 2023, aimed at improving communication, data handling, and child protection features of the service.

In 2020, the GVH began its investigation into TikTok, suspecting that the company was not providing consumers with essential information about the platform's operations in a manner consistent with good faith and fairness. This included concerns about how user data was managed and utilized.

The investigation concluded in November 2023 with TikTok making several commitments to enhance its communication and ensure that Hungarian consumers are well-informed, enabling them to make more conscious decisions regarding the service.

Key elements of TikTok's commitments included the establishment of an information data center, the incorporation of TikTok videos to explain important features, default settings for users under 18, a voluntary 20% advertising cap, and the development of child protection settings and forums.

The GVH emphasizes the importance of companies fulfilling their commitments as mandated by the authority. Non-compliance or failure to provide proof of compliance could result in significant fines imposed by the GVH.

The authority is particularly focused on protecting families, children, patients, and the elderly, and aims to investigate the market behavior of large technology companies that impact a significant number of consumers and businesses in Hungary.