Attorneys general from more than a dozen U.S. states, plus the District of Columbia, have taken legal action against TikTok. These lawsuits argue that the app is harming the mental well-being of young users by making it highly addictive. Moreover, they assert that TikTok’s algorithm curates content that aligns with users’ preferences, resulting in excessive screen time and contributing to mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and concerns about body image.
National Investigation Leads to Lawsuits
The legal complaints are a result of a nationwide inquiry that began in 2022, claiming that TikTok’s design promotes harmful actions, particularly among kids, via features like infinite scrolling and compulsive notifications. The lawsuits further claim that TikTok's live-streaming option can lead to the exploitation of minors, with some describing the platform as a "virtual strip club."
Concerns Over Age Restrictions
Although TikTok has rules against children under 13 signing up, it has faced criticism for age limits that can be easily ignored, allowing young users to encounter adult content. States such as New York and New Jersey have highlighted the risks associated with the app's challenges and its addictive nature, urging for measures to protect children from further damage.
The Associated Press reports…
