The global rise of social media has connected millions, fostering creativity and communication.
Yet, it has also given way to concerning trends that sometimes have tragic consequences.
Platforms like TikTok, with their immense reach, face increasing scrutiny from governments worldwide regarding user safety and content moderation, according to Hotnews.
Three Teenagers Died
Venezuela’s Supreme Court has fined TikTok $10 million, accusing the platform of negligence in failing to control harmful viral challenges.
The ruling comes after the deaths of three teenagers and the poisoning of 200 others who inhaled chemicals as part of a dangerous trend circulating on the platform.
The court deemed TikTok negligent for not implementing measures to prevent the spread of such harmful content, ordering payment within eight days.
The funds from the fine will establish a victim compensation fund, according to Judge Tania D’Amelio.
This initiative aims to address the psychological, emotional, and physical harm caused by these viral challenges, particularly among children and teens.
President Nicolás Maduro supported the decision, citing the need for accountability following the tragic incidents. In November, he called for legal action against TikTok representatives in response to the deaths.
This isn’t the first time TikTok has faced governmental backlash.
Globally, the platform has encountered mounting criticism over content moderation, data privacy concerns, and allegations of facilitating propaganda.
In the United States, where TikTok boasts over 170 million users, the platform’s parent company ByteDance faces demands to sell the app by January or risk a nationwide ban.
Meanwhile, Canada dissolved TikTok's local branch over national security risks, and Brazil warned the platform to strengthen protections for minors.
TikTok has repeatedly denied accusations of misconduct, maintaining that it prioritizes user safety and complies with regulations.
However, as countries ramp up investigations and impose penalties, the platform finds itself at the center of a growing debate over corporate responsibility in the digital age.
