Overview

• TikTok disclosed in April that a technical error had led to the storage of limited EU user data on Chinese servers, contradicting its earlier claim of remote-only access
• The new investigation will assess whether the platform met EU standards for accountability, transparency, regulator cooperation and lawful transfers under the bloc’s data protection rules
• This follow-up probe builds on an April decision that imposed a €530 million fine after finding that TikTok exposed users to potential state surveillance risks
• Ireland’s Data Protection Commission consulted with other EU supervisory authorities before initiating the additional inquiry to ensure coordinated enforcement
• The case highlights persistent EU concerns over TikTok’s data localization efforts and the sufficiency of safeguards against foreign state access