TikTok Trims Workforce in a Shift towards AI Content Moderation, Impacting Hundreds Globally

TikTok, owned by ByteDance, cuts numerous jobs as it transitions to AI content moderation. At present, TikTok utilizes a combination of automatic detection and human moderation to scrutinize content uploaded on the platform.

Earlier, Reuters was informed by two sources knowledgeable on the subject that over 700 positions were cut in Malaysia. However, TikTok later rectified this number, stating that fewer than 500 staff members in the nation were impacted.

The staff members, primarily engaged in the company's content regulation activities, were notified about their termination through an email sent late Wednesday, as per the insiders. These sources wished to remain anonymous as they weren't permitted to communicate with the press.

Answering inquiries, TikTok acknowledged the job cuts, stating that they anticipate a few hundred workers worldwide to be impacted. This move forms part of a broader strategy to enhance its moderation procedures.

TikTok utilizes a combination of automatic detection systems and human oversight to scrutinize the content uploaded on the platform.