TikTok, the popular social media platform, is facing a wave of lawsuits from several US states, accusing the company of harming and failing to protect young users. The allegations include using addictive software to keep children engaged, misrepresenting content moderation, and facilitating sexual exploitation of underage users.
TikTok has denied the accusations and expressed disappointment in the states choosing to sue instead of collaborating on solutions. The platform’s parent company, ByteDance, is also combating proposed legislation that could ban the app in the US amid concerns about data security and influence by the Chinese government.
While lawmakers and the White House support the ban, many of TikTok’s 170 million US users oppose it, citing the platform’s importance in amplifying marginalized voices. Civil liberties groups, including the ACLU, argue against the shutdown, emphasizing the right to freedom of speech and expression.
‘Dangerous by Design’
The latest lawsuits highlight TikTok’s alleged tactics to maximize user engagement for profit, with California’s Attorney General calling the platform a source of social media addiction. Concerns about mental health, exploitation, and addictive design are at the forefront of the legal battles against TikTok.