TikTok app users hit by login problems after record fine for failing to protect children's privacy

Some TikTok users report no longer being able to share videos on the app due to new rules imposed as a result of the FTC settlement

The TikTok app lets children make and share short videos and memes using animated effects and music (AFP/Getty Images)

Popular video sharing app TikTok has received the largest ever fine from a US regulator for violating children's privacy, resulting in login issues for many of its users.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) alleged that the Musical.ly app, now owned by TikTok, illegally collected personal information from children under the age of 13. TikTok agreed to pay $5.7 million (£4.3m) on Wednesday to settle the case.

As part of the settlement, TikTok's operators are required to remove any videos made by children under 13-years-old. Since the announcement of the settlement, some TikTok users reported being locked out of their accounts.

"We're hearing that a few people are having trouble accessing TikTok today," TikTok tweeted. "If you typed the wrong birthday, head to the 'Report a Problem' section of the app and provide confirmation that you're age 13 or older by submitting a copy of your government ID."

This message was met with outrage among many people, with one Twitter user responding: "My daughter does not have a government ID at age 13. This is ridiculous. Fix it."

First launched in China in 2016, TikTok became a viral sensation among children and teenagers after launching globally in 2017. By October 2018, the app had become the most popular app in the United States. The firm now claims to have more than 500 million monthly active users across 150 countries.

The FTC's complaint alleged that TikTok failed to get consent and also did not delete personal information when parents requested the firm to do so. Under the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA), apps and websites aimed at children are required to obtain parental consent in order to gather their data.

“The operators of Musical.ly – now known as TikTok – knew many children were using the app but they still failed to seek parental consent before collecting names, email addresses, and other personal information from users under the age of 13,” said FTC chairman Joe Simons.

"This record penalty should be a reminder to all online services and websites that target children: We take enforcement of COPPA very seriously, and we will not tolerate companies that flagrantly ignore the law."

TikTok said in a statement that it cares "deeply about the safety and privacy of our users," adding, "This is an ongoing commitment, and we are continuing to expand and evolve our protective measures in support of this."

A spokesperson for TikTok was not immediately available for comment on whether such measures would be introduced outside of the US.​