The complaints allege incomplete data access responses, with TikTok reportedly withholding parts of users’ data and providing only a limited download tool instead of delivering a full copy as required by Articles 12 and 15 of GDPR.

The situation underscores European concerns about how much data popular apps collect and how transparently this data is shared with third parties.

The fallout could spur stricter safeguards, clearer disclosures, and tighter rules on third-party data sharing, potentially reshaping tech policy and platform practices.

Regulators are seen as escalating penalties, with GDPR fines trending higher and notable totals reaching the billions of euros, signaling stronger enforcement in Europe.

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Users are advised to tighten privacy by limiting ad-tracking permissions, reviewing app permissions, and removing unused apps to improve transparency and control.

Privacy advocates warn that anonymized data can still reveal personal details when combined across platforms, raising GDPR implications.

The complaints were filed on a recent Wednesday, triggering immediate regulatory attention.

A European digital rights group has filed complaints accusing TikTok of cross-app tracking, including activity from Grindr, that could violate GDPR protections for sensitive data like sexual orientation.

The group argues there was no valid legal basis under GDPR for sharing or processing such data and that informed consent for advertising and analytics was not obtained.

Experts urge greater transparency around data practices to safeguard digital citizens, warning that without regulatory changes platforms may persist in complex tracking methods that skirt privacy rules.

The case highlights the broader advertising ecosystem and the role of data brokers in cross-app profiling, which could attract further regulatory scrutiny and penalties if violations are found.