TikTok Cooperates With EU Probe Into Romania Elections – Digital Services Act Investigation 2026

TikTok’s Cooperation With EU Probe Highlights Digital Risks in Romania Elections

The European Commission confirmed on 4 February 2026 that TikTok is showing an exceptionally cooperative attitude in the ongoing investigation related to Romania’s presidential elections. The probe focuses on whether the platform was used to spread disinformation, manipulate voter opinion, or artificially amplify specific political narratives during the 2024–2025 electoral process. EU authorities are reviewing the case under the Digital Services Act (DSA), which requires major online platforms to prevent harm and ensure transparency.

Romania’s election results shocked many observers when a relatively unknown candidate achieved unexpected success in the first round. The outcome immediately raised concerns that social media platforms, particularly TikTok, might have influenced public opinion through coordinated campaigns. Romania’s Constitutional Court questioned the integrity of the process and called for European-level scrutiny.

In response, the European Commission opened a formal investigation in December 2024. Officials requested detailed information about TikTok’s algorithms, content moderation systems, and political advertising policies. The goal is to determine whether the company took adequate steps to reduce risks linked to election interference.

According to the Commission spokesperson, TikTok has provided extensive technical data and allowed experts to review internal safety mechanisms. This level of engagement has been described as constructive and helpful for advancing the inquiry. The Commission emphasized that cooperation is essential for protecting democratic processes in the digital age.

TikTok stated that it fully respects European laws and has invested heavily in election integrity measures. The company reiterated that paid political advertising is not permitted on the platform and that misleading content is removed through automated and human review systems. Special monitoring teams were active during the Romanian elections.

The company shared figures showing that more than 120,000 suspicious accounts were suspended, 98% of violating content was removed within 24 hours, and millions of videos received fact-check labels directing users to verified information. TikTok argues that these actions demonstrate its commitment to responsible platform governance.

The Digital Services Act obliges large technology firms to prevent the spread of harmful content, maintain transparency in political communication, and assess algorithmic risks. Non-compliance can result in fines of up to 6% of global annual revenue, a potentially enormous penalty for a company the size of TikTok.

Digital policy experts believe this case could shape the future of social media regulation across Europe. A strict EU decision may force other platforms to strengthen monitoring of political content and make recommendation systems more transparent. Analysts describe the investigation as a critical test of the balance between free expression and digital responsibility.

The Commission continues to collect evidence from Romanian authorities, cybersecurity agencies, and independent researchers. A final decision is expected later in 2026 and could lead to significant changes in how social platforms operate during elections.

The controversy underlines a broader reality: modern elections are increasingly fought online, where algorithms and viral trends can influence democratic choices. European institutions now view platform accountability as essential to protecting voters and public trust.

Conclusion: A New Test for Digital Democracy

TikTok’s cooperation is a positive step, yet the final outcome will determine how seriously global platforms must treat election integrity. The Romania case may become a turning point for digital governance, proving that social networks are no longer neutral spaces but powerful actors with major democratic responsibilities.