Despite not being a user of TikTok, the app tracks users across the web, according to a recent report.
Based on data gathered by Consumer Reports, the viral video platform uses similar data collection techniques to established tech giants like Alphabet (Google) and Meta (Facebook).
A person’s IP address, web browsing habits, and search history are among the information TikTok receives, although some privacy settings may override the amount of information TikTok collects.
I wasn’t expecting TikTok’s trackers to be this widespread, It only works because it’s a secret operation. People should have a choice, even if some don’t care. There shouldn’t be any shadowy activities going on.
Said Patrick Jackson, chief technology officer of security firm Disconnect, which conducted the research.
TikTok has been contacted for comment on the report by Digital Phablet.
According to a spokesperson for Consumer Reports, TikTok does not use the data to aggregate or target individuals by interest category and only uses the data of those without TikTok accounts for “aggregated” reports.
In the same manner, as other platforms, we use the data we receive from advertisers to improve the effectiveness of our advertising services.
The information tracked by websites related to domestic violence, birth control, and dieting is one example of data that has reportedly been shared with TikTok.
The company, which last year overtook Google as the world’s most popular website, is currently working with its partners to avoid inadvertently transmitting sensitive information, such as data about children or health conditions.
This is not the first time that ByteDance’s data collection practices have been scrutinized.
If TikTok is found to have violated UK data protection laws, it may be fined £27 million.