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TikTok, the widely used video-sharing platform, is undergoing a significant global reorganization that could impact hundreds of content moderator jobs in the UK. These moderators, part of the trust and safety team, play a crucial role in reviewing videos and ensuring they comply with the app’s guidelines. As part of the restructuring, many of these roles are being moved to other European offices or outsourced to third-party providers, although a smaller number will remain in the UK. This change is not limited to the UK; it also affects employees in south and south-east Asia, highlighting the extensive scope of the company’s plans.
The driving force behind this shift is TikTok’s growing reliance on artificial intelligence (AI) to monitor content. The company states that over 85 percent of content removed for breaking rules is now detected and deleted automatically by AI systems. This move towards automation reflects a wider trend, as TikTok has been scaling back its human moderation teams globally. For example, last September, the entire moderation team in the Netherlands was dismissed, and in October, around 500 workers in Malaysia were replaced by automated technology. More recently, staff in Germany went on strike to protest similar job cuts.
This restructuring comes at a critical moment, as the UK has introduced new online safety regulations. These rules require platforms like TikTok to protect users from harmful content through measures such as age verification. Non-compliance could lead to severe penalties, including fines of up to 18 million pounds or 10 percent of a company’s global revenue. Critics, including union leaders, have raised concerns that relying heavily on AI might compromise user safety. They argue that automated systems may struggle to fully grasp the complexities of harmful content, potentially endangering millions of users.
Despite these layoffs, TikTok’s financial performance remains strong. In 2024, the company reported a 38 percent increase in revenue in the UK and Europe, reaching 6.3 billion dollars. However, the debate continues over whether technology can fully replace human judgment in ensuring online safety. As TikTok prioritizes automation, many are left wondering if this approach will truly protect users in the long term.