This work was supported by the United Tech & Allied Workers National Branch of the Communication Workers Union.

This report explores the lived experiences of data workers, particularly content moderators and trust and safety workers at TikTok in London, United Kingdom. It focuses on how big tech companies treat data workers, documenting the context of exploitation, the systematic outsourcing to business process outsourcing companies (BPOS), the replacement of human labor with inadequate automated systems, and the reduction of workforce numbers without accountability.

It aims to expose the hidden realities of data work. It also highlights the emotional and psychological toll of moderating harmful content. The core message is that while data workers play a crucial role in keeping online platforms safe, they are often exploited, underpaid and left without mental health support, their labor remains largely invisible, despite its importance.

This issue is important because data workers are responsible for protecting millions of users from harmful online risks including abuse, violence, and suicide related materials to mention few. Despite this, they face significant psychological risks that are often underestimated or ignored.

Raising awareness about these realities is essential to hold large technology companies accountable for their labor practices. Without public attention, issues such as low pay, job insecurity, lack of mental health support, and union suppression will continue unchecked. Everyone who uses digital platforms benefits from this hidden labor, and therefore should understand the human cost behind it.

I conducted online interviews to gain insights on the conditions and context, even though many participants are still employed which limits the depth of the information they could safely share.  This work is indebted to the data workers who shared their experiences despite potential professional and personal risks. 

This work is the result of the generous support of the United Tech & Allied Workers National Branch of the Communication Workers Union. Having previously documented similar dynamics and experiences in Kenya, I felt a strong responsibility to continue amplifying these voices on a global scale. Following a conversation I had with a union worker in the UK, the idea of producing a report came to life. Both the union and the Data Workers‘ Inquiry provided valuable support . Thanks in particular to the editors and experts in the field, Dr. Milagross Micilie, John Chanfield and Decca Muldowney whose insights and support were instrumental throughout the process.

Read the full report here.