August 22, 2025 – The Control Yuan has raised serious concerns about the social media platform TikTok, citing its impact on children and potential risks to Taiwan’s national security. In a newly approved investigation report, the oversight body said TikTok’s collection and storage of user data in China could expose sensitive information, including that of minors, to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).
The report, compiled by Supervisory Commissioners Lin Wencheng, Lai Zhenchang, and Pu Zhongcheng, warned that TikTok not only undermines children’s academic performance but also promotes dangerous viral challenges. According to the findings, more than 100 child fatalities worldwide have been linked to TikTok-related activities, prompting lawsuits from affected families.
The investigation also highlighted national security risks, pointing to TikTok’s role in information warfare. The platform’s algorithms were said to favor pro-China content and suppress material critical of Beijing. Referencing European Union action, the Control Yuan noted that Ireland’s Data Protection Commission fined TikTok €530 million earlier this year for storing user data in China.
Alarmingly, despite restrictions meant to bar users under 13, the report revealed that 46.1% of Taiwanese children aged 9–12 actively use TikTok. This suggests that nearly 380,000 elementary school students are potentially sharing personal data on the platform.
The Commission also criticized the government’s slow progress in regulating social media. Efforts to pass the Digital Services Intermediary Act failed, leaving little oversight over powerful platforms. The Control Yuan urged the Executive Yuan to push relevant agencies to tighten regulations and enforce stronger safeguards to protect children and national security.
