TikTok backs out of congressional meeting over child safety questions

TikTok has withdrawn from a scheduled public roundtable with a U.S. congressional committee focused on China. Committee Chair John Moolenaar stated on Thursday that the company reversed its decision, primarily to avoid scrutiny of its child safety practices.

Moolenaar alleged that TikTok had initially agreed to send its chief security officer to answer questions regarding Chinese government access to U.S. data and the platform's algorithms. However, the company subsequently declined to appear.

"Now, TikTok is refusing to appear citing its own desire to avoid broader scrutiny of its child safety practices," Moolenaar wrote in a statement. The committee had been negotiating in good faith to bring the executive before them.

The meeting was intended to address concerns about TikTok's operations and its potential ties to the Chinese government, particularly regarding data security and the protection of minors. The company's refusal to participate raises questions about its transparency and willingness to engage on sensitive topics.