TikTok is set to lay off hundreds of content moderators in the UK as part of a global reorganisation focused on artificial intelligence (AI) for content moderation. The move will see work shifted to other European offices, with the company citing a need to "maximize effectiveness and speed" through technological advancements.
Key Takeaways
Hundreds of UK content moderator jobs are at risk at TikTok.
The company is increasing its reliance on AI for content moderation.
The Communication Workers Union (CWU) has criticised the decision, calling it "corporate greed over the safety of workers and the public."
The layoffs occur despite the UK's new Online Safety Act, which imposes stricter rules on platforms.
AI-Driven Reorganisation
TikTok plans to reduce its human content moderation workforce in the UK, with affected staff working in its Trust and Safety team in London. The company stated that this reorganisation aims to strengthen its global operating model for Trust and Safety by concentrating operations in fewer locations. A spokesperson for TikTok explained that the shift is intended to "maximize effectiveness and speed" by leveraging technological advancements, including AI. The company claims that its automated systems, powered by AI, already remove 85% of posts that violate its rules. This investment in AI is also cited as a way to reduce the exposure of human reviewers to distressing content.
Union Criticism and Safety Concerns
The Communication Workers Union (CWU) has strongly condemned TikTok's decision. John Chadfield, CWU National Officer for Tech, stated that the move is "putting corporate greed over the safety of workers and the public." He further expressed concern that TikTok workers have been warning about the consequences of reducing human moderation in favour of AI alternatives, which he described as "hastily developed, immature." The union also highlighted that the layoffs were announced as the company's workers were preparing to vote on union recognition.
Impact of Online Safety Act
This significant reduction in human moderation comes at a time when the UK has implemented the Online Safety Act. This legislation, which came into force in July, imposes stringent requirements on companies to monitor content on their platforms, particularly concerning the age of users viewing potentially harmful material. Non-compliance can result in substantial fines, up to 10% of a company's total global turnover. Despite these new regulations, which aim to enhance online safety, TikTok is proceeding with its AI-focused strategy. The company has also introduced new parental controls and faced investigations from UK data watchdogs regarding its handling of teen privacy and safety.
Global Trend and Business Performance
The UK layoffs are part of a broader global trend for TikTok, which has previously reduced its trust and safety staff in other regions, replacing them with automated systems. Similar cuts have occurred in the Netherlands and Malaysia, and workers in Germany have recently held strikes over layoffs in their trust and safety teams. Meanwhile, TikTok's business performance remains strong, with revenues growing significantly in 2024, although the company reported a narrowed operating loss.