A recent lawsuit filed against popular social media app TikTok alleges that the company knowingly allowed children under the age of 13 to set up regular accounts on the platform, giving them access to create, watch, and share videos with adults. The lawsuit, filed in the Northern District of Illinois, claims that TikTok’s practices violate the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA), which prohibits online services from collecting personal information from children under the age of 13 without parental consent.
The lawsuit alleges that TikTok failed to obtain parental consent before allowing children to set up regular accounts on the app, which requires users to be at least 13 years old. According to the complaint, this allowed children to interact with adults on the platform, potentially exposing them to inappropriate content and interactions.
TikTok has faced scrutiny in the past for its handling of children’s privacy and safety on the app. In 2019, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) fined TikTok $5.7 million for violating COPPA by collecting personal information from children without parental consent. The company was also required to implement changes to its policies and practices to better protect children’s privacy.
In response to the lawsuit, a TikTok spokesperson stated that the company takes the privacy and safety of its users, including children, very seriously. The spokesperson emphasized that TikTok has implemented a number of measures to protect children on the platform, including age-gating features and content moderation policies.
However, the lawsuit highlights the challenges that social media companies face in balancing the need to protect children online while also providing a platform for creative expression and social interaction. As more children use social media apps like TikTok, it is crucial for companies to prioritize the safety and privacy of young users and comply with laws like COPPA to ensure a safe and age-appropriate online experience.
The outcome of the lawsuit against TikTok remains to be seen, but it serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting children’s privacy and safety in the digital age. Parents and caregivers should be aware of the risks associated with allowing children to use social media apps and take steps to monitor and supervise their online activities to ensure a safe and positive online experience.