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EU Launches Formal Probe Into TikTok
The European Union (EU) has officially launched an investigation into TikTok, accusing the popular video-sharing app of violating obligations to protect minors online.
This move comes under the recently enacted Digital Services Act (DSA) and marks the second major probe into online platforms following the scrutiny of Elon Musk’s X in December.
The EU is particularly focused on concerns that TikTok, owned by China’s ByteDance, may not be adequately addressing the potential negative impacts on young users.
A significant concern revolves around the “rabbit hole” effect, where users are exposed to potentially more dangerous content through algorithmically recommended related content.
The EU is particularly worried about TikTok’s age verification tools, expressing doubts about their reasonability, proportionality, and effectiveness.
The Commission has initiated formal proceedings to investigate potential breaches of the Digital Services Act (DSA) by TikTok.
This includes examining areas such as “advertising transparency” and “data access for researchers.”
The decision to investigate was prompted by an in-depth analysis of TikTok’s risk assessment report and its responses to Brussels’ inquiries about actions taken against illegal content, measures for protecting minors, and data access.
The commission emphasizes its commitment to ongoing evidence collection, asserting the authority to implement further enforcement actions if deemed essential.
EU I ternam market commissioner, Thierry Breton said “As a platform that reaches millions of children and teenagers, TikTok must fully comply with the DSA and has a particular role to play in the protection of minors online.
“We are launching this formal infringement proceeding today to ensure that proportionate action is taken to protect the physical and emotional well-being of young Europeans. We must spare no effort to protect our children,”
TikTok’s monthly user base in the European Union has risen to over 142 million, marking an increase from 125 million reported last year.
Commission executive vice president Margrethe Vestager emphasized that TikTok must thoroughly assess the risks associated with its services for users of all ages.
The formal investigation will concentrate on four key areas: TikTok’s assessment and mitigation of systemic risks, compliance with measures to protect minors’ privacy and safety, the creation of a “reliable” advertisement repository, and efforts to enhance transparency.
In response, TikTok stated its commitment to working on online protection measures for minors.
A TikTok spokesperson said “TikTok has pioneered features and settings to protect teens and keep under 13s off the platform, issues the whole industry is grappling with.
“We’ll continue to work with experts and industry to keep young people on TikTok safe, and look forward to now having the opportunity to explain this work in detail to the Commission.
The proceedings have no set deadline for completion.
Under the Digital Services Act (DSA), Brussels possesses the authority to impose substantial fines, reaching up to six percent of a digital firm’s global revenues for violations.
In cases of serious and repeated breaches, the commission holds the power to block platforms in the 27-nation bloc.
This EU law, effective since last year, applies to major online platforms globally, including TikTok, X, Facebook, and Instagram.
Super Eagles Captain, Ahmed Musa has been signed up by Jaiz Bank as a brand ambassador.
An elated Musa made the disclosure in a statement on his verified handle on micro-blogging site, X on Thursday.
The Kano Pillars striker urged his fans to troop to Jaiz Bank to do business for trusting him with the new role.
He exclaimed, “And to my amazing fans – if you want to support me, make sure to head over to Jaiz Bank and open your accounts with them today! ”
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He wrote, “✨Alhamdulillah✨ I am SO excited to announce that I’ve officially joined Jaiz Bank as their newest ambassador! 🎉💼
“A huge thank you to @JaizBankNG for trusting me and allowing me to be a part of this amazing journey! 🙏🏼💚 It’s an honor to represent a brand that believes in growth, security, and financial empowerment.
“I can’t wait to share all the incredible things we’ll be doing together! 🚀💡
And to my amazing fans – if you want to support me, make sure to head over to Jaiz Bank and open your accounts with them today! Let’s grow together! 💪🏼🔑
“@JaizBankNG is a non interest Financial institution poised with a mission to make life better through ethical Finance. 👌👌”
#NewBeginnings #BankWithJaizBank #PartneredUp #TeamJaizBank”
On November 20, 2024, Kenya’s First Lady, Rachel Ruto, celebrated her 56th birthday and her husband President William Ruto publicly expressed his love and appreciation for his wife on this special day, wishing her well.
The birthday celebrations were marked by an outpouring of goodwill from political figures, media, and citizens across Kenya, who praised her for her grace, leadership, and significant contributions to society, particularly through initiatives like the Joyful Women Organisation, which aims to empower rural women.
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The day was characterized by a collective acknowledgment of her role as a national figure dedicated to community upliftment.
In a heartfelt message, President William Ruto took to social media, writing, “Happy birthday my love, @MamaRachelRuto. Continue being a blessing to me and our children. Mungu akubariki sana,” which translates to “God bless you abundantly.”
Other prominent leaders also extended their wishes to the First Lady, with Anne Waiguru, EGH, OGW, Governor of Kirinyaga County, tweeting, “Happy Birthday First Lady,” further showing the respect and admiration for Rachel Ruto’s leadership and impact.
A gas cylinder explosion at a filling station in Jibia Local Government Area of Katsina State has resulted in significant damage to six vehicles, according to a statement from the Katsina State Police Command.
The command’s spokesperson, Abubakar Sadiq-Aliyu, confirmed the incident, which occurred on Friday, November 15, 2024.
He explained that a loud explosion alerted police operatives from the Jibia Divisional Police Headquarters. Responding promptly, the Divisional Police Officer led a team to the site, supported by military personnel.
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“Upon arrival, operatives found a truck loaded with gas cylinders engulfed in flames at Tamal filling station, along Kagadama-Magamar Jibia Road,” Sadiq-Aliyu stated. The joint team acted swiftly, deploying measures to protect lives and limit property damage. Their efforts successfully extinguished the fire.
The spokesperson added, “Six motor vehicles were significantly affected by the fire incident, but fortunately, no life was lost.”
State Commissioner of Police, Aliyu Abubakar-Musa, has directed a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the explosion. Updates on the findings will be provided as investigations progress.
This incident highlights the need for heightened safety measures at gas filling stations to prevent such occurrences.
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