The move is aimed at ensuring that the app’s content moderation models are not being manipulated by Chinese authorities.
TikTok’s US data-hosting partner, Oracle will now review the app’s algorithms in an effort to reassure western lawmakers of its independence from the Chinese Government. Along with its algorithms, the short-form video platform will enable Oracle to review its content moderation models.
The reviews will include audits of the ByteDance-owned app’s content moderation process, which might help the platform steer clear of further regulatory scrutiny. While TikTok has consistently denied any interference or censorship by the Chinese Government, it continues to be viewed as a security risk by many.
The FCC Commissioner recently published an open letter calling on Apple and Google to remove TikTok from their app stores owing to the app’s “pattern of surreptitious data practices”.
[3 minute read]
