Did TikTok Design Its Platform To Be Addicting To Kids?

From viral videos exposing the dangers of teen phone addiction to influencers chasing clout, this week’s round up reveals the growing tension between digital convenience and mental well-being.

Here’s a look at some key stories from the last week.

---

Leaked TikTok Documents Reveal Addiction By Design

Internal TikTok documents reveal the company knowingly allowed content that harms teens, despite their own research confirming safety risks. 

A lawsuit filed by 14 states alleges TikTok intentionally designed its platform to hook young users. 

Kentucky officials mistakenly revealed redacted documents, exposing TikTok’s inaction on issues like mental health and harmful filters.

TikTok executives know about app’s effects on teens, lawsuit documents allege | NPR

---

Is Social Media to Blame For Mental Health Crisis?

As U.S. teens face a mental health crisis, concerns about social media’s role intensify. 

While lawmakers push for restrictions, experts debate its impact on youth depression and anxiety. 

Despite the lack of consensus, the push for reform continues as platforms remain under scrutiny for their influence on young minds.

More Children Are Depressed and Anxious. Is Social Media Really Behind It? | The Wall Street Journal 

---

Storms of Misinformation

As Hurricane Milton struck, misinformation surged online, with conspiracy theorists claiming government weather control and spreading false FEMA narratives. 

Influencers and political figures amplified these lies, fueling distrust and hampering relief efforts. 

Misinformation is a growing concern, where many Americans now reject shared reality in favor of baseless beliefs.

I’m Running Out of Ways to Explain How Bad This Is | The Atlantic

---

Risking Lives for Likes

Amid Hurricane Milton’s chaos, influencers took to social media to livestream their experiences.

One livestreamer braved Tampa’s violent winds for online fame. His dangerous antics — including floating on a blow-up mattress — attracted millions of views but ignited backlash for risking his life and diverting emergency resources.

Influencers risking death in hurricanes for clicks and cash | BBC

---

Viral Ad Sparks Emotional Response Over Teen Phone Addiction

A viral video by sportswear brand Siroko, showcasing the dangers of teen phone addiction, has struck a chord with parents. 

The ad, depicting a girl consumed by her phone until rediscovering joy on a bike, has garnered over 19 million TikTok views and widespread praise for its emotional and powerful message.

Parents have expressed deep concern, with many saying the video reflects not only their children’s struggles but also society’s growing dependence on digital devices.

See the viral bike video that’s resonating with phone-weary parents around the world | NBC Los Angeles 

---

Other Headlines

• This AI Pioneer Thinks AI Is Dumber Than a Cat | The Wall Street Journal

• Can You Turn Off Big Tech’s A.I. Tools? Sometimes, and Here’s How. | The New York Times

• Tesla Cybercab: Elon Musk Unveils Long-Awaited Driverless Robotaxi | The Wall Street Journal

• Vape products target kids with flashy tech and flavors. Why hasn’t the govt. shut it down? | ABC 12 News

• Instagram blames some moderation issues on human reviewers, not AI | Tech Crunch

---

Did we miss anything?

Let us know in the comments below.