By Gwurld4026 
Investigation Launched on TikTok and Truecaller in Nigeria
The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has initiated investigations into the data processing practices of TikTok and Truecaller to ensure their compliance with Nigeria’s data protection regulations.
TikTok Investigation:
The NDPC’s scrutiny of TikTok aligns with global concerns regarding the platform’s data handling practices. Notably, the UK’s Information Commissioner’s Office recently launched an investigation into how TikTok uses personal information of teenagers, particularly in content recommendations.
Truecaller Investigation:
Truecaller has previously faced regulatory attention in Nigeria. In 2019, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) investigated Truecaller’s privacy policy, finding it non-compliant with global data protection laws and Nigeria’s Data Protection Regulation. Concerns were raised about the excessive collection of user information and potential privacy invasions.
However, in April 2023, the Nigerian Federal High Court ruled that Truecaller does not operate as a data controller or harvester of phone numbers. The court stated that users who grant the app access to their contacts are the data controllers, and without such user actions, Truecaller would not have access to personal details.
Implications:
The NDPC’s ongoing investigations underscore Nigeria’s commitment to enforcing data protection standards and ensuring that digital platforms operate transparently and in compliance with national regulations.