The FTC Act targets “unfair or deceptive acts or practices” by companies.
In response, a TikTok spokesperson said the company disagreed with the allegations and that it had “been working with the FTC for more than a year to address its concerns.”
“We’re disappointed the agency is pursuing litigation instead of continuing to work with us on a reasonable solution,” they added.
When could TikTok be banned under new US law?
A DOJ spokesperson told BBC News they “cannot comment on the substance of the referral from the FTC against TikTok.”
“Consistent with our normal approach, the Justice Department consulted with FTC in advance of this referral and will continue to do so as we consider the claims,” they added.
The FTC’s announcement adds to the growing pressure faced by TikTok in the US.
That means the deadline is likely to come some time in 2025, after the winner of the 2024 presidential election takes office.
The law was introduced to address concerns that TikTok might share user data with Chinese authorities – claims the company has denied.
In May, TikTok filed a lawsuit aiming to block that legislation, arguing it is an “extraordinary intrusion on free speech rights” of the company and its 170 million American users.
Source: BBC