Women holding Phone with TikTok logo on the screen

TikTok Faces Criminal Probe In France After Lawmaker Says Platform 'Endangered Lives' Of Minors

A French parliamentary committee chairman has requested criminal charges against TikTok, alleging the platform “deliberately endangered” minors’ lives.

French Lawmaker Seeks Criminal Charges

“The conclusion is clear: TikTok has deliberately endangered the health and lives of its users,” Delaporte said. He cited potential criminal offenses including “active complicity” and accused TikTok executives of perjury during committee hearings.

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Platform Rejects Allegations

TikTok categorically rejected the committee’s findings through a company spokesperson, according to Reuters. The platform emphasized its “demanding” policies to protect users, particularly features designed for teenage safety and family well-being. TikTok called the presentation “misleading” and said it unfairly scapegoated the company for industry-wide issues.

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Global Regulatory Environment

The French committee recommended banning social media for children under 15 and implementing nighttime curfews for users aged 15-18. The investigation was triggered by a 2024 lawsuit from seven families accusing TikTok of exposing children to suicide-promoting content.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is meeting Chinese officials in Madrid to discuss trade issues, with TikTok’s fate reportedly on the agenda as the divestment deadline approaches.

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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

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