The EU has initiated a second formal probe into TikTok under its Digital Services Act, this time focusing on the 'Task and Reward' system in TikTok Lite, which may encourage addiction, especially among minors.

Interim measures considered by the EU could temporarily block TikTok Lite across Europe during the investigation, with potential penalties reaching up to 6% of TikTok's global annual revenue for DSA violations.

The investigation centers on TikTok's alleged failure to submit a required risk assessment report for the TikTok Lite app, raising concerns about harm to mental health and a 'prima facie infringement of the DSA'.

TikTok has been given a deadline by the EU to prove it protects children, with missed deadlines leading to possible fines and suspensions under the Digital Services Act.

Amidst the EU's pressing concerns, TikTok's future in the US is also uncertain due to a bill that could ban the app unless ByteDance divests its American operations.

ByteDance, TikTok's parent company, has until April 24 to respond to the EU's potential interim measures, while TikTok voices its disappointment and intention to continue dialogue with EU officials.