China Denies Illegal Storage of Personal Data Following EU TikTok Investigation

Web Editor

July 12, 2025

a person holding a phone with the logo of tiktok on it in front of a chinese flag, Aquirax Uno, dyst

Background on the Issue

The European Union (EU) launched an investigation into TikTok, a popular social media app owned by the Chinese company ByteDance, over concerns about its data handling practices. The investigation aims to determine whether TikTok’s data collection and storage methods comply with EU regulations, specifically the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

Who is ByteDance?

ByteDance is a Chinese internet technology company founded in 2012 by Zhang Yiming. The company is known for developing several popular apps, including TikTok (known as Douyin in China), which has gained immense popularity worldwide, especially among younger users. ByteDance’s success has made it one of the most valuable startups globally, with an estimated worth of over $140 billion as of 2021.

Why is TikTok under scrutiny?

TikTok’s data handling practices have raised concerns among policymakers and privacy advocates due to its massive user base, data collection methods, and potential links to the Chinese government. The app collects various user data, including location information, device details, and video content. These concerns have led to bans or restrictions on TikTok in several countries, including the United States under the Trump administration.

China’s Response

On Friday, China denied allegations that it illegally stores personal data on servers within its territory following the EU’s investigation into TikTok. The Chinese government asserted that its data protection laws comply with international standards and that any claims to the contrary are unfounded.

Details of the EU Investigation

The EU’s investigation focuses on several key areas, including:

  • Transparency regarding data collection and usage
  • Compliance with GDPR, particularly concerning user consent
  • Data transfers to China and potential risks associated with Chinese government access

Implications for TikTok Users

If the EU investigation finds that TikTok violates data protection regulations, it could result in significant consequences for the app and its users. These may include:

  • Fines for TikTok and ByteDance
  • Restrictions on data transfers between the EU and China
  • Increased scrutiny from other countries and regulatory bodies worldwide

Key Questions and Answers

  1. Q: Who launched the investigation into TikTok? A: The European Union (EU) initiated the investigation.
  2. Q: What are the main concerns regarding TikTok’s data handling practices? A: Concerns include transparency around data collection, compliance with GDPR, and potential risks associated with data transfers to China.
  3. Q: What is ByteDance and why is it relevant? A: ByteDance is a Chinese internet technology company that owns TikTok. Its success and global reach make it one of the most valuable startups worldwide.
  4. Q: How might the EU investigation impact TikTok and its users? A: Potential consequences include fines, restrictions on data transfers, and increased regulatory scrutiny.
  5. Q: What is GDPR? A: The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a data protection law in the European Union that sets guidelines for the collection, storage, and processing of personal data.