TikTok is under fire in a lawsuit filed by the state of Utah, with newly unsealed documents revealing that the social media giant allegedly knew its video livestreams were encouraging sexual conduct and exploiting children. The lawsuit, which claims that TikTok allowed this behavior to persist because of the significant profits it generated, casts a spotlight on the platform’s handling of its livestreaming features, especially in relation to underage users.
According to the documents, TikTok failed to act on warnings that its livestreams were being used for inappropriate purposes, including the solicitation of sexually explicit content. The lawsuit claims that despite these concerns, the platform prioritized revenue generation over the safety of its younger users, turning a blind eye to the risks. This revelation comes at a time when TikTok is already facing increased scrutiny over its data privacy practices and its potential national security risks due to its Chinese ownership by ByteDance.
The case is significant as it underscores the growing concern about the safety of minors on social media platforms. Utah’s lawsuit aims to hold TikTok accountable for allegedly failing to protect children from online exploitation, which is a violation of state and federal laws. The legal battle also casts a shadow over TikTok’s commitment to promoting a safe online environment, as the company has long claimed to prioritize safe livestreaming practices.
The timing of this lawsuit is crucial, as a potential ban on TikTok in the United States looms. A Jan. 19 deadline has been set for ByteDance to sell TikTok or face a national ban, amid ongoing concerns about its ties to the Chinese government. President-elect Donald Trump has requested the US Supreme Court to delay this ban, which could have major implications for the app’s future in the US market.
TikTok has responded by maintaining that it prioritizes safety on its platform and is committed to improving its measures to protect users. However, this lawsuit marks a new chapter in the ongoing legal and regulatory challenges faced by the social media giant.
