Recently unredacted internal reports from TikTok show that the app’s algorithm promotes content featuring more attractive users while reducing the visibility of those deemed “unattractive.” These revelations surfaced amid an ongoing lawsuit involving TikTok, led by California, New York, and 12 other states. The lawsuit targets the platform for its alleged harmful effects on young users, particularly concerning body image and mental health.
The unredacted text was reportedly discovered by Kentucky Public Radio, who copied sections of court filings into a new document. According to these documents, TikTok’s algorithm actively favors users perceived as attractive and diminishes content from those deemed less appealing. The platform allegedly promotes a narrow beauty standard, a factor officials argue is damaging to its predominantly young user base.
TikTok has faced similar accusations before. In 2021, beauty trends involving plastic surgery transformations and filters gained significant popularity, sparking widespread concern. More recently, a trend promoting the use of garlic on the face as a beauty treatment has prompted warnings from medical professionals about the potential harm.
The lawsuit also highlights TikTok’s addictive nature, especially for children and teens. Internal documents reveal that 95% of smartphone users under 17 use the app regularly, with many experiencing negative impacts on essential activities such as sleep and schoolwork. One unnamed TikTok executive reportedly admitted that the app’s algorithm could prevent users from engaging in vital activities like “sleep, eating, and interacting socially.”
California Attorney General Rob Bonta accused TikTok of deliberately targeting children, aware that they are particularly vulnerable to addictive content. New York Attorney General Letitia James also criticized the app for its role in promoting unrealistic beauty standards through its filters, which can negatively affect young girls’ self-esteem.
In response to the lawsuit, TikTok spokesperson Alex Haurek denied the allegations, calling them misleading. He emphasized the company’s safety features and efforts to protect young users, but the lawsuit remains ongoing.
The case adds to the growing scrutiny around social media platforms’ impact on youth, with TikTok now in the spotlight for how its algorithm shapes users’ content and, potentially, their mental health.
