A new lawsuit filed by Utah Attorney General Sean Reyes accuses TikTok of enabling the sexual exploitation of children through its live video feature, TikTok Live. The lawsuit raises concerns about the platform's ability to safeguard children from online predators.
TikTok Live: A Platform for Abuse?
TikTok Live allows users to broadcast live videos and interact with viewers in real-time. Viewers can also send virtual gifts, often represented by emojis, to users during livestreams. While TikTok prohibits users under 18 from hosting live streams, the lawsuit paints a concerning picture.
The Lawsuit's Claims
The lawsuit, filed in Utah district court, alleges TikTok Live operates like "a virtual strip club" where adults may pressure children into performing "illicit acts" on camera in exchange for virtual gifts. It further accuses TikTok of having inadequate age verification methods and failing to enforce safety measures effectively.
The complaint details how, as early as December 2023, TikTok was aware of "pervasive issues with transactional sexual content" on live streams, particularly involving minors. These concerns were allegedly raised through user complaints and internal safety reports.
TikTok's Response
TikTok spokesperson Michael Hughes responded by stating the platform has "industry-leading policies and measures" to protect teens. These include a minimum age requirement of 18 for live streaming and account follower limitations for accessing the feature. He further claims TikTok revokes access to features for accounts violating age restrictions.
A Growing Trend of Scrutiny for TikTok:
This lawsuit marks the second filed by Utah against TikTok concerning child safety. Last year, the state accused the app of harming young users' mental health, echoing similar lawsuits from Arkansas and New York City against TikTok and other social media platforms.
The lawsuit also coincides with a broader threat to TikTok's US presence. President Biden recently signed a law requiring the Chinese-owned app to be sold to a US company or face a ban from US app stores. This move has been challenged by TikTok, citing potential First Amendment violations.
Alleged Inaction Despite Awareness
The redacted Utah lawsuit details instances where investigators encountered inappropriate content within minutes of browsing TikTok Live. Examples include underage girls engaging in suggestive behavior for virtual gifts and young boys using filters to impersonate girls to receive gifts.
Furthermore, the lawsuit alleges children are manipulated into sending virtual gifts with the promise of "likes, shout outs,goods, or interactions" from livestream hosts.
Seeking Justice
Utah's attorney general is seeking a jury trial for this case. The lawsuit emphasizes the need for stricter regulations on TikTok Live and potentially other social media features to ensure a safer online environment for children.
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Source: CNN