Venezuela’s Supreme Court has fined TikTok $10 million, accusing the platform of negligence in relation to deadly viral challenges that allegedly caused the deaths of 3 adolescents and the poisoning of over 200 others in schools across the country.
The court cited TikTok’s failure to implement “necessary and adequate measures” to prevent the spread of harmful content encouraging these dangerous activities.
The ruling, led by Judge Tania D’Amelio, mandates TikTok, owned by China’s ByteDance, to establish a local office in Venezuela and pay the fine within eight days. The penalty will be used to create a “TikTok Victims Fund,” aimed at compensating those harmed by harmful content, especially children and teenagers.
This case originates from reports that the adolescents died from chemical intoxication after participating in challenges popularized on TikTok. The platform, known for its user-driven viral trends, has faced growing criticism over its role in the spread of hazardous content. While TikTok’s policies prohibit content promoting self-harm or suicide, critics argue that enforcement is insufficient to prevent dangerous challenges from gaining traction.
In response to the court’s decision, TikTok acknowledged the gravity of the situation but refrained from commenting on the financial penalty. The ruling intensifies scrutiny on the platform, especially as President Nicolas Maduro’s administration pushes for stricter regulations on social media.
Maduro has accused TikTok and similar platforms of fostering “hate” & “division” and has previously blamed the app for the death of a 12-year-old girl allegedly participating in a tranquilizer challenge.
The court’s decision highlights the urgent need for social media platforms to ensure user safety and curb the spread of harmful content.
TikTok now faces significant pressure to enhance its moderation systems and prevent future incidents.
