TikTok in legal hot seat as state accuses app of exposing kids to harmful content while misleading parents

Florida officials took aim at tech giant TikTok in a new lawsuit alleging the popular app misled parents about the content shown on its algorithm while operating in violation of the state’s online child protection laws. 

The lawsuit, filed Monday in state court in St. Lucie County, alleged the popular app violated Florida law by allowing children under the age of 14 to create accounts on its platform, according to a court filing obtained by Fox News Digital. 

"TikTok’s success hinges on its ability to addict children and teenagers to the platform," Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier said in a statement. "TikTok knowingly deceives parents and allows children to be exposed to harmful and inappropriate content in direct violation of Florida law." 

The state requested a court order requiring TikTok owner ByteDance modify its platform to be in compliance with Florida law, while also seeking up to $50,000 in penalties for each alleged violation, the filing states.

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The lawsuit also alleged that TikTok is "actively deceiving Florida parents about the risks of allowing their teens to access this platform," by misrepresenting the volume and frequency of harmful content shown on its platform, such as pornography and depictions of drug use. 

"Music, videos, and other content available on the TikTok app contain sexual content, drugs, alcohol, intense profanity, self-harm messages, and other X-rated content, all of which are frequently and easily accessible at the fingertips and swipes of Florida tweens and teens," the lawsuit continued.

Florida’s complaint alleged TikTok’s business model disproportionately relies on algorithms that prey on addictive behavior among younger users. 

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In a statement to Fox News Digital, a TikTok spokesperson said the company is in contact with the state attorney general and is working to ensure the platform operates in accordance with Florida law. 

The company also said it has informed users under the age of 14 that their accounts will be suspended.

"We are evaluating the state's complaint and are prepared to defend our strong record on minor safety," the spokesperson added.

Fox News Digital reached out to the Florida Attorney General’s Office for comment but did not immediately receive a response.

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The law, titled H.B. 3 and implemented Jan. 1, 2025, bans social media companies from allowing users under the age of 14 to create accounts on their platform, and requires minors under 16 to receive parental approval before making a profile.

A federal judge previously blocked enforcement of the law after deeming it was unconstitutional. However, the decision has been temporarily tabled as the state continues to challenge the ruling in an appeals court. 

Last year, Florida filed a lawsuit against Snap Inc., the owner of Snapchat, alleging that the company used addictive features to target users under the age of 13, who are already not permitted to even open social media accounts under state law.

The state’s lawsuit against Snap Inc. remains ongoing. 

Florida now joins more than 25 states — including New York and California — that have filed lawsuits against TikTok alleging deceptive practices and exploitation of young users.