TikTok Harming Young Users – 13 States Allege in Recent Lawsuits

Publish Date : 10/09/2024

TikTok is facing new lawsuits filed by 13 U.S. states and the District of Columbia, accusing the platform of harming, and failing to protect, young users. The lawsuits, filed in New York, California, Washington D.C., and other states, claim TikTok uses intentionally addictive software to keep children engaged and misrepresents the effectiveness of its content moderation. The lawsuits also allege TikTok prioritizes corporate profits by targeting children, who are more vulnerable to social media addiction.

State attorneys general argue TikTok’s practices contribute to worsening mental health issues among young people. Washington D.C.’s Attorney General also accused TikTok of operating an unlicensed money transmission service through its live streaming and virtual currency features. The lawsuits seek financial penalties and reforms.

TikTok denies the allegations, stating it provides safety features like screen time limits and privacy settings for minors, and expressed disappointment states chose litigation instead of working together on industry-wide solutions. This legal action adds to the growing scrutiny TikTok faces in the U.S., including previous lawsuits related to privacy concerns and ongoing efforts to potentially ban the app.