As everyone knows, TikTok is a popular social media platform used to create and share fun, humorous videos for the world. Nearly 136 million people in the United States use TikTok as a good source of entertainment and information. Yet is it safe for us to use? It is very dangerous, especially for young teens, who the majority of the app is used by. This puts a huge responsibility on social media companies to protect minors from online threats, such as inappropriate content, cyberbullying, the spread of misinformation and foreign government involvement.
One of the main concerns of TikTok is its impact on the mental health of many people. Many young users are exposed to videos that romanticize unhealthy behaviors, such as self-harm, eating disorders and unrealistic beauty standards. This causes depression, especially in teens. Comparison to others online affects self-esteem and reduces confidence. Cyberbullying is also a huge concern with social media, which leads to depression as well. According to a study in 2024, 64% of kids were likely to be cyberbullied on TikTok. There are many videos online talking badly of others or posting pictures of others without their permission. With the regulation of the app, making fun of others wouldn’t be allowed online. All these types of videos would not be shared online, and these ideas won’t get into the heads of young people, especially those who are influenced often.
Another major issue is the spread of false information. The information posted could be one-sided or something completely made up to persuade people to change their views, especially politically. Conspiracy theories and biased views mislead people, especially teens, into believing fake information. These ideas could be completely made up to influence people to change their views on various topics. With proper regulation, misinformation and persuasion can be stopped from spreading all over the internet, keeping people aware of the truth.
Foreign governments who own some of TikTok can access information through users of TikTok, such as the device used, network information, location and much more. The Chinese government has partial ownership and can gain access to the data of all 170 billion users. They can find out views on things based on data collected and intentionally show content or ads to persuade you into buying something or changing views. With regulation from our government, we can protect our national security and privacy. The government can ensure user safety and people can feel safe using it without worrying about their personal information being seen or misused.
Government regulation of TikTok should seriously be considered to create a safer platform with appropriate social media content. Although many don’t truly realize how bad TikTok is, a safer environment can be created where people will be able to enjoy TikTok without the fear of being at risk. If tighter regulations were to be enforced, TikTok would have a significant decrease in online threats, the spread of misinformation and foreign involvement. It could become a much better platform with more positive and meaningful experiences.
