Florida suing TikTok for allegedly exposing kids to harmful content and decieving parents | Latest Tech News
Florida officers took purpose at tech giant TikTok in a new lawsuit alleging the favored app misled parents about the content shown on its algorithm while working in violation of the state’s online youngster safety legal guidelines.
The lawsuit, filed Monday in state court in St. Lucie County, alleged the favored app violated Florida law by permitting kids under the age of 14 to create accounts on its platform, according to a court submitting obtained by Fox News Digital.
“TikTok’s success hinges on its ability to addict children and teenagers to the platform,” Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier said in a assertion. “TikTok knowingly deceives parents and allows children to be exposed to harmful and inappropriate content in direct violation of Florida law.”
The state requested a court order requiring TikTok proprietor ByteDance modify its platform to be in compliance with Florida law, while also in search of up to $50,000 in penalties for each alleged violation, the submitting states.
The lawsuit also alleged that TikTok is “actively deceiving Florida parents about the risks of allowing their teens to access this platform,” by misrepresenting the quantity and frequency of harmful content shown on its platform, such as pornography and depictions of drug use.
“Music, videos, and other content available on the TikTok app contain inappropriate content, drugs, alcohol, intense profanity, self-harm messages, and other X-rated content, all of which are frequently and easily accessible at the fingertips and swipes of Florida tweens and teens,” the lawsuit continued.
TikTok said it has informed customers under the age of 14 that their accounts shall be suspended. tashatuvango – stock.adobe.com
Florida’s criticism alleged TikTok’s business model disproportionately depends on algorithms that prey on addictive conduct among youthful customers.
In a assertion to Fox News Digital, a TikTok spokesperson said the company is in contact with the state attorney basic and is working to make sure the platform operates in accordance with Florida law.
The company also said it has informed customers under the age of 14 that their accounts shall be suspended.
“We are evaluating the state’s complaint and are prepared to defend our strong record on minor safety,” the spokesperson added.
Fox News Digital reached out to the Florida Attorney General’s Office for remark but didn’t immediately obtain a response.
The law, titled H.B. 3 and applied Jan. 1, 2025, bans social media corporations from permitting customers under the age of 14 to create accounts on their platform, and requires minors under 16 to obtain parental approval before making a profile.
“TikTok’s success hinges on its ability to addict children and teenagers to the platform,” Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier told Fox News Digital in a assertion. AFP via Getty Images
A federal choose beforehand blocked enforcement of the law after deeming it was unconstitutional. However, the choice has been briefly tabled as the state continues to problem the ruling in an appeals court.
Last yr, Florida filed a lawsuit against Snap Inc., the proprietor of Snapchat, alleging that the company used addictive options to goal customers under the age of 13, who are already not permitted to even open social media accounts under state law.
The state’s lawsuit against Snap Inc. stays ongoing.
Florida now joins more than 25 states — including New York and California — that have filed lawsuits against TikTok alleging misleading practices and exploitation of younger customers.
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