French authorities have launched a criminal investigation into TikTok, focusing on allegations that the popular video platform promotes suicide content and uses algorithms that could push vulnerable young users toward self-harm. This action follows mounting pressure from French families, parliamentarians, and international watchdog groups who claim TikTok fails to adequately protect children from harmful material.
The Paris prosecutor’s office announced that the investigation will specifically examine content “consisting notably of the promotion of suicide,” as well as whether TikTok properly notified authorities about potential violations committed by users on its platform. French law mandates that intermediaries like social media companies report serious offenses to the police. Potential crimes under investigation include “propaganda for products or methods … used to take one’s life.”
This probe carries significant weight, with possible convictions leading to prison sentences and substantial fines for those found guilty. Notably, the investigation is in its early stages; at this point, no individuals have been named as potential suspects.
TikTok Under Fire from Families and Parliament
The investigation stems from a confluence of events. Last year, seven families filed suit against TikTok France, alleging that the platform failed to moderate harmful content and exposed children to life-threatening material. Two of these families tragically lost their children. One such case involved 15-year-old Marie Le Tiec. After her death, Stephanie Mistre, Marie’s mother, discovered disturbing videos on her daughter’s phone. These included guides on suicide methods, graphic depictions of self-harm, and comments encouraging users to escalate from mere attempts to full suicides.
Mistre claims TikTok’s algorithm repeatedly surfaced this dangerous content for her daughter. “They normalized depression and self-harm,” she stated, “turning it into a twisted sense of belonging.”
This case is not isolated. French parliamentarians conducted their own investigation into TikTok’s impact on children’s mental health, ultimately contributing to the criminal probe. International organizations like Amnesty International also published reports detailing similar concerns about TikTok’s content moderation practices and potential harm to young users.
TikTok Defends Its Safety Measures
In response to the parliamentary report, TikTok released a statement Tuesday emphasizing its safety features. They highlighted over 50 pre-set settings designed to protect teenagers and claimed that nine out of ten violative videos are removed before being viewed. However, critics argue these measures fall short, particularly concerning algorithms that can inadvertently push vulnerable users towards harmful content.
The criminal investigation in France will scrutinize TikTok’s operations more closely, potentially setting a precedent for similar scrutiny from other governments concerned about the safety and well-being of children on social media platforms. The outcome could significantly impact how tech companies are held accountable for the content shared on their sites and the potential consequences for failing to safeguard users, particularly minors.
