TikTok replaces its content moderators with AIs

On Friday October 11, TikTok announced layoffs within its team of content moderators. And this is just the beginning.

Against a backdrop of regulatory pressure and efforts to improve the platform's security, TikTok is now focusing on AI-driven content moderation.

TikTok prefers AIs to human moderators

According to Reuters, ByteDance's TikTok is cutting its workforce, mainly in Malaysia. This downsizing comes at a time when the Chinese social network is reportedly turning increasingly to automated tools to moderate content on its platform. The aim is to streamline operations and manage growing volumes of content more effectively. In response to questions from Reuters, TikTok confirmed the layoffs and said that several hundred employees are expected to be affected globally as part of a broader plan to improve its moderation operations. " In 2024 alone, we plan to invest $2 billion globally in trust and security. We are continuing our efforts. 80% of violent content is now removed by automated technologies." Although TikTok has provided no exact figures, there are whispers that around 500 people may be affected. According to Reuters sources, who testified on condition of anonymity (as they were not authorized to speak to the media), employees were informed of their dismissal by e-mail.

Wave of layoffs at TikTok

While ByteDance currently employs over 110,000 people in more than 200 cities worldwide, according to the company's website, the Chinese social network is also planning further staff cuts next month: " We are making these changes as part of our ongoing efforts to further strengthen our global operating model for content moderation," said a TikTok spokesperson in a statement.

It should be noted that this downsizing is part of a wider restructuring plan for the platform that began earlier this year. In January, TikTok had already laid off 60 employees in sales and advertising. By April, the company had also cut more than 250 jobs in Ireland. Finally, in May, reports indicated that the platform had laid off almost 1,000 employees in its operational and marketing teams.

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