French Families Sue TikTok Over Harmful Content to Teens

TikTok is once again under scrutiny, along with other social media platforms, for its handling of potentially harmful content.

Seven french families have recently filed a lawsuit against TikTok, alleging that the platform exposed their teenage children to dangerous content that led two of them.

Both aged 15, to take their own lives, according to their lawyer.

The lawsuit claims that TikTok’s algorithm directed these young users toward content promoting self-harm, suicide, and eating disorders, attorney Laure Boutron-Marmion told Franceinfo.

The families have brought their case to the Créteil judicial court, marking what Boutron-Marmion described as the first collective lawsuit of its kind in Europe.

“The parents seek to hold TikTok legally accountable,” Boutron-Marmion said.

“A commercial entity provides a product to minors and must take responsibility for the product’s risks and failures.”

Like Meta’s Facebook and Instagram, TikTok has faced increasing criticism and legal action in the U.S. for allegedly engaging children with addictive content that adversely impacts their mental health.

TikTok has not yet issued a response to these latest allegations, though in the past the company has stated its commitment to addressing concerns related to children’s mental health.

CEO Shou Zi Chew informed U.S. lawmakers this year that TikTok has invested in protective measures for young users.