TikTok will not introduce end-to-end encryption (E2EE) for its direct messages, arguing that the move could put users particularly young people at risk. E2EE, used by rivals such as WhatsApp, Signal, iMessage, and Facebook Messenger, ensures only the sender and recipient can view messages, making it the most secure form of digital communication.
The company said that E2EE would prevent moderators and law enforcement from reviewing messages when necessary to protect users from harmful content. TikTok confirmed the stance during a security briefing at its London office, describing it as a deliberate choice to differentiate itself from competitors.
TikTok, which has over 30 million monthly users in the UK and more than a billion globally, faces ongoing scrutiny due to its ownership by ByteDance and past allegations of Chinese government influence. The firm separated its US operations earlier this year following pressure from US lawmakers.
Social media analyst Matt Navarra calls the decision “savvy,” noting it allows TikTok to claim it is prioritising “proactive safety” over “privacy absolutism.” However, he warns it may put the platform out of step with global privacy expectations.
Child protection groups have welcomed the move. The NSPCC says E2EE platforms make it harder to detect child sexual abuse and exploitation. The Internet Watch Foundation also praises TikTok for setting an “important precedent” by keeping moderation and safety measures intact.
TikTok confirms that direct messages still use standard encryption similar to Gmail, and only authorised staff can access messages in response to valid law enforcement requests or reports of harmful behaviour. Cybersecurity experts suggest the decision may also help the company maintain trust with lawmakers and ensure support for safeguarding young users.
Erizia Rubyjeana
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