A shocking investigation has uncovered troubling information about TikTok's impact on young users.
NPR reported that internal documents from the company expose a range of concerning practices, including the exploitation of underage users and intentional addiction-inducing algorithms. The findings come from a two-year investigation conducted by 14 attorneys general, leading to a lawsuit against the social media giant.
The investigation revealed that TikTok was aware of underage users, some as young as 15, engaging in inappropriate behavior on the platform's live streaming feature. These minors were reportedly stripping for digital gifts, which could be converted into real money. This discovery came after TikTok launched an internal probe following a Forbes report on the issue.
According to the documents, TikTok has quantified the exact amount of content consumption required to form a habit on the platform. The company determined that viewing 260 videos, which can take as little as 35 minutes, is likely to result in user addiction.
The investigation also uncovered that TikTok actively manipulated its algorithm to prioritize content featuring users deemed attractive by the company. This practice reportedly involved reducing the visibility of individuals considered less attractive, potentially promoting narrow beauty standards that could negatively impact young users.
Internal communications revealed a concerning attitude towards user well-being. One project manager candidly admitted that the goal of implementing time-limit features was not to reduce time spent on the app, but rather to improve public trust through media coverage.
The documents disclosed that an estimated 95% of smartphone users under 17 used TikTok at least once a month, leading one company staffer to claim they had "hit a ceiling among young users." This high usage rate aligns with TikTok's internal view of being in an "arms race for attention."
The investigation also revealed that TikTok was aware of how the app disrupts users' daily routines. An executive who chose to remain anonymous highlighted the app's influence, stating that its algorithm is so powerful it keeps kids from basic activities like sleeping, eating, moving around, or making eye contact.
This statement emphasizes the addictive nature of the platform and the potential harm it can cause to users' overall well-being.
TikTok has responded to the allegations, criticizing the reporting of sealed court documents. A company spokesperson, Alex Haurek, claimed that the information was taken out of context and misrepresented TikTok's commitment to community safety.
However, advocacy groups and lawmakers have expressed alarm at the revelations. The Oversight Project, a social media watchdog group, stated:
These unredacted documents prove that TikTok knows exactly what it's doing to our kids – and the rot goes all the way to the top.
In response to the report, Senators Richard Blumenthal and Marsha Blackburn have demanded that TikTok provide all documents and information related to child safety on the platform.
The investigation into TikTok has exposed serious concerns about the platform's impact on young users. From the exploitation of minors to intentional addiction-inducing practices, the findings raise questions about the responsibility of social media companies in protecting their most vulnerable users. As lawmakers and advocacy groups continue to scrutinize TikTok's practices, the future of the platform and its relationship with its younger audience remains uncertain.
