By 9jaeye 
A coalition of 14 U.S. states, led by attorneys general from California and New York, has filed lawsuits against TikTok, claiming the platform exploits young users by intentionally designing features that are addictive and harmful to their mental health. The lawsuits accuse TikTok of using manipulative algorithms, endless scrolling, and push notifications to maximize the time minors spend on the platform, which in turn boosts the company’s ad revenue.
Addictive Features and Their Impact
The lawsuits claim that TikTok intentionally includes several key features designed to hook young users and keep them engaged for extended periods. These include its content-recommendation system, which continuously feeds users new videos, and its use of push notifications to draw users back to the app even when they are not using it. Additionally, critics argue that TikTok’s “beauty filters” promote unrealistic beauty standards, which contribute to body image issues and harm teenagers’ self-esteem. Attorneys general claim these features contribute to growing mental health problems, such as anxiety and depression, among teenagers
Legal Actions and Demands
The lawsuits, filed in several states, seek not only financial penalties but also changes to TikTok’s design and policies to better protect young users. The attorneys general argue that TikTok knowingly prioritizes profits over the safety and well-being of children, stating the platform’s addictive nature has had a detrimental impact on minors across the country. These legal actions follow a similar lawsuit filed against Meta (the parent company of Instagram and Facebook) last year, further emphasizing the growing concern over social media’s role in the youth mental health crisis.
TikTok’s Response
TikTok has strongly denied the claims, asserting that the lawsuits are misleading and do not accurately reflect the efforts the company has made to protect young users. TikTok has introduced several safety features, including screen time limits and parental oversight tools, but the plaintiffs argue these safeguards are inadequate and easily bypassed by minors.
The legal pressure on TikTok continues to mount, as the platform also faces potential bans in the U.S. if it does not sever ties with its Chinese parent company, ByteDance.
For more information, you can read the full details on (CA Attorney General) and California Department of Justice. Stay updated on the follow up news by visiting 9ja Eye News.