Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall has initiated legal action against TikTok Inc. and its parent company, ByteDance Inc., in Montgomery County. The legal team, which includes representatives from Prince Glover Hayes, aims to promote a safer digital environment for children in Alabama. "This lawsuit is not just about holding TikTok accountable; it is about ensuring that digital platforms prioritize user safety and deliver responsible content," Marshall stated.
The suit alleges that TikTok exploits children by making them addicted to harmful content and misleading parents about the platform's safety.
Regarding TikTok's algorithm, the lawsuit claims it is designed to capture users' attention, encouraging addictive behavior comparable to gambling. Although TikTok asserts its safety for teens and preteens, the algorithm reportedly exposes minors to harmful content such as alcohol, drugs, sexual behavior, and eating disorders. Additionally, TikTok's safety features, including "Kids Mode" and "Restricted Mode," are criticized as ineffective and easily bypassed, leaving children vulnerable. The complaint notes that ByteDance, TikTok’s parent company, provides better protections for children in China by limiting screen time and controlling live content access.
The State of Alabama seeks both temporary and permanent orders to prevent TikTok from making false or misleading claims regarding its app's safety, the effectiveness of the Restricted Mode, and its Community Guidelines. Moreover, it demands monetary compensation for damages allegedly caused by TikTok’s negligence and harmful practices. The objective is to impose penalties and secure a court ruling that obliges TikTok to stop misleading practices that affect young users' safety.
Attorney General Marshall underscores the importance of this lawsuit as a measure to shield young people in Alabama from harmful and addictive content, noting that the mental health impacts on teenagers have often been overlooked. "We are committed to holding not only TikTok, but all social media companies responsible for the well-being of our youth and future generations," he added.
The legal representation for the State includes Rhon Jones, Matt Griffith, Jeff Price, Elliot Bienenfeld, Connor Chase, and Will Jones from Beasley Allen; Attorney General Steve Marshall, Katherine Robertson, Brad Chynoweth, Michael Dean, and Lindsay Barton from the Alabama Office of the Attorney General; and Josh Hayes, Matt Glover, and Blake Williams from Prince Glover Hayes.