A number of states have launched an investigation into TikTok focused on what critics of the platform have argued is its potential influence on users’ mental well-being.
The investigation, per the Associated Press, sees the involvement of multiple state attorneys general, including California AG Rob Bonta. In a statement shared Wednesday, Bonta said this nationwide investigation is aimed at getting “much-needed answers” while also looking into the methods used by the platform to boost engagement from younger users.
“Our children are growing up in the age of social media—and many feel like they need to measure up to the filtered versions of reality that they see on their screens,” Bonta, a Democrat, said. “We know this takes a devastating toll on children’s mental health and well-being. But we don’t know what social media companies knew about these harms and when.”
The investigation, Bonta added, will result in what he described as a determination on whether TikTok is “violating the law.” Bonta is joined in the investigation by a “bipartisan coalition” of other attorneys general from additional states including Florida, New Jersey, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Nebraska, Vermont, and Tennessee.
Matthew J. Platkin, who currently serves as Acting AG of New Jersey, also mentioned Instagram in his statement on the multistate operation. “If social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram are violating our laws and exposing young users to psychological and physical harms, we will hold them accountable,” Platkin, who previously served as lead counsel to Governor Phil Murphy, said.
When reached for comment by Complex on Thursday, a TikTok spokesperson offered the following:
“We care deeply about building an experience that helps to protect and support the well-being of our community, and appreciate that the state attorneys general are focusing on the safety of younger users. We look forward to providing information on the many safety and privacy protections we have for teens.”
