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FILE – March 17, 2023 at the TikTok Inc. building in Culver City, California. (AP Photo/Damian Dovarganes, File)
The Federal Trade Commission is investigating TikTok's data and security practices, which could lead to a settlement or lawsuit against the company, according to people familiar with the matter.
The investigation is the latest battle in Washington for social media companies. The company is already fighting a federal bill that could ban the platform in the United States unless it cuts ties with its Beijing-based parent company ByteDance.
In its investigation, the FTC will ask whether TikTok violated a section of federal law that prohibits “unfair and deceptive” business practices by denying individuals in China access to U.S. user data. The official, who was not authorized to discuss the matter, said the investigation is underway.
The agency also cited the company for potential violations of the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act, which requires apps and websites aimed at children to obtain parental consent before collecting personal information from children under 13. We are conducting a rigorous investigation.
NBC ends its relationship with Ronna McDaniel
NBC News has terminated its relationship with former Republican National Committee Chair Ronna McDaniel less than a week after hiring her as an on-air political contributor, following an outcry from some journalists and commentators. It was a great decision.
NBCUniversal News Group Chairman Cesar Conde announced the decision in a memo on Tuesday, apologizing to staff who felt disappointed in the hire and confirming that he had agreed to the hire.
There was no immediate comment from McDaniel, who resigned as RNC leader about two weeks ago. She learned she had lost her job through media reports, not directly from NBC, sources close to her said, as they were not authorized to speak publicly about the matter. spoke on condition of anonymity.
See more in the Boston Herald