At TikTok, we strive to work to ensure compliance and data security via our PDPO (Privacy and Data Protection Office). But what do privacy and data protection mean? And why is it important to protect sensitive information? We'll explore this more below.

What is Privacy and Data Protection?

Privacy and data protection center around safeguarding valuable personal information. Personal information is broadly defined as any data that identifies or could reasonably be linked to a specific individual, either directly or indirectly. This includes details that relate to or describe a person. However, definitions may vary across jurisdictions due to differing laws.

Sensitive Personal Information

Certain types of personal information require heightened protection, which is often referred to as sensitive personal information. What constitutes sensitive information may also differ depending on the laws of a region.

Why Is it Important to Protect Personal Information?

If personal data is stolen, it could be used maliciously, including for monetization, impersonation, or reputational damage. Protecting personal information is critical in today's digital age.

For Companies Like TikTok

Users trust platforms like TikTok with their data, and this trust must be respected. Safeguarding data is not only a legal obligation, but also a critical factor in fostering user confidence. Data protection ensures that data collection, storage, use, and sharing are secure and lawful. Moreover, broader considerations like data transfers, data sovereignty, AI use, and safeguarding the data of younger users are integral to privacy and data protection practices.

TikTok’s Commitment to Privacy

How Does TikTok Protect Data?

TikTok places a high priority on user privacy. Whether it’s rolling out new features or enhancing products, privacy principles are integrated throughout every stage of the product lifecycle.

• Visit the Privacy Center for detailed resources: TikTok Privacy Center.
• For Settings and Support: TikTok Privacy Settings.

By prioritizing privacy protection, TikTok upholds its legal responsibilities, while aiming to build trustworthy and privacy-safe platforms.

About the Privacy and Data Protection Office (PDPO)

Who We Are

The Privacy and Data Protection Office (PDPO) is a dedicated unit at TikTok working to implement and maintain robust privacy and data protection protocols. The team collaborates with departments like Legal, Security, Research and Engineering, Product, and Trust & Safety to address all matters related to privacy.

What We Do

PDPO’s mission revolves around these core goals:

1. Implementing Privacy Controls: Establishing preventive, detective, and corrective measures aligned with international laws and regulations.
2. Enabling Privacy-Safe Products: Building user-trusted products that prioritize privacy.
3. Thought Leadership: Partnering with professionals and thought leaders to drive innovation in technology, security, and privacy.

Through cross-functional collaborations and adherence to global standards, the PDPO plays a vital role in ensuring user data is protected.