TikTok knew its livestreams exploit children, Utah lawsuit claims

TikTok has been accused of knowing its video live-streams encourage sexual conduct and exploit children while profiting from them, according to a lawsuit from Utah’s Division of Consumer Protection. The lawsuit claims TikTok Live creates a “virtual strip club” that connects minors to adult predators in real-time, as stated by Utah Attorney General Sean Reyes.

The complaint alleges that TikTok’s livestream feature is coupled with monetization, fostering an environment for sexual and illegal acts.

The lawsuit was unsealed Friday, just days ahead of a scheduled TikTok ban in the U.S. The social media app’s China-based owner, ByteDance, must sell by Jan. 19 or risk a nationwide ban.