Florida officials have launched a lawsuit against TikTok, accusing the platform of misleading parents regarding the content that its algorithms display and violating the state’s child protection laws online. This legal action, which was initiated in state court in St. Lucie County, claims that TikTok allows kids under 14 to create accounts, contrary to Florida regulations.
Florida Attorney General James Usmeyer stated, “TikTok’s success hinges on its ability to keep children and teenagers engaged,” and emphasized that the app supposedly deceives parents, exposing their children to harmful content, in direct conflict with state law.
The state is requesting that a court compel TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, to adjust its platform so that it complies with Florida laws. They are also seeking penalties of up to $50,000 for each alleged infraction.
The complaint notes that TikTok misrepresents the volume and occurrence of harmful content, such as pornography and drug use, potentially misleading parents about the dangers of allowing their teens access to the platform. According to the lawsuit, “The music, videos, and other content available on TikTok include sexual material, substance use, profanity, and messages of self-harm, all of which are readily accessible to Florida teens.” Furthermore, it argues TikTok’s business model largely depends on algorithms that exploit the addictive behaviors of younger users.
A representative from TikTok responded by saying they have been in touch with the state attorney general and are taking steps to ensure compliance with Florida law. They also mentioned that they had begun suspending accounts for users below the age of 14.
The lawsuit has gained attention, as it positions Florida among more than 25 states that have similarly accused TikTok of deceptive practices that target young users. The new law, labeled “HB 3,” which went into effect on January 1, 2025, prohibits social media platforms from allowing anyone under 14 to create accounts and mandates parental consent for minors under 16.
A federal ruling had previously blocked this law, declaring it unconstitutional, but that decision is under reconsideration as the state pursues an appeal. Last year, Florida also filed a lawsuit against Snap, the owner of Snapchat, claiming it intentionally targeted users under 13, who are prohibited from opening social media accounts under state law.
