TikTok, a popular social media platform, is facing yet another lawsuit, this time from the state of Iowa. The state is alleging that TikTok has been lying to parents about the presence of sexual content, drugs, alcohol, profanity, and other inappropriate material accessible to young users on the app. Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird filed the lawsuit, claiming that TikTok is inaccurately labeling its app as suitable for children aged 12+ on the Apple App Store. This article will delve into the details of the lawsuit and the allegations made against TikTok.
According to the lawsuit, TikTok’s 12+ age rating on the Apple App Store is not consistent with the actual content available on the app. Iowa argues that if TikTok were to be correctly rated, it would receive a 17+ label due to the presence of explicit material. Similarly, the state claims that TikTok’s “T” for “Teen” ratings on the Google Play Store and Microsoft Store are also inaccurate.
The lawsuit further alleges that TikTok has been keeping parents in the dark about the content accessible to their children. Iowa’s Attorney General Bird expressed concerns about young children being exposed to graphic materials such as sexual content, self-harm, and illegal drug use through the app. The state also found that users as young as 13 years old can readily access recipes for alcoholic drinks, advice on using marijuana, music with profane lyrics, and videos promoting eating disorders, suicide, and self-harm.
One of the features that TikTok offers to address content concerns is its Restricted Mode, which is supposed to limit content that may not be appropriate for all audiences. However, the lawsuit claims that this feature does not effectively work, even when enabled. Iowa argues that TikTok’s Restricted Mode fails to prevent young users from accessing inappropriate content, further fueling the state’s allegations against the company.
In response to the allegations, Iowa is seeking a preliminary and permanent injunction under Iowa’s Consumer Fraud Act. The state aims to stop TikTok from misleading users and parents about the presence of inappropriate content in its app. Additionally, Iowa is seeking civil penalties, disgorgement, and other fees.
TikTok, on the other hand, argues that it has industry-leading safeguards in place for young users, including parental controls and time limits for those under 18. The company’s spokesperson, Alex Haurek, stated that TikTok is committed to prioritizing community safety and addressing industry-wide challenges.
This is not the first time TikTok has faced legal action related to inappropriate content. In 2022, Indiana filed a lawsuit against the company, alleging that TikTok misled parents about showing sexual and drug-related content to minors. Although the Indiana lawsuit has been dismissed, TikTok is still facing several other legal challenges. For instance, Utah has filed a lawsuit claiming that TikTok makes children addicted to the app. The company also faces uncertainty regarding the legality of states blocking young users from signing up without parental permission.
TikTok’s legal battles regarding inappropriate content continue to escalate, with Iowa being the latest state to sue the company. The allegations made by Iowa highlight the importance of accurately rating content and providing effective safeguards for young users. As the lawsuit unfolds, TikTok will be under scrutiny to address these concerns and ensure the safety of its younger audience. The outcome of this case may have significant implications for the platform and its ability to protect and cater to its users.
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