Minnesota lawsuits accuse TikTok of exploiting youth with addictive features

In Minnesota, the Attorney General Keith Ellison announced a lawsuit against TikTok on August 19, 2025. The lawsuit claims that the social media platform employs addictive algorithms that harm the mental health of young users. This legal action is part of a broader trend, as around 24 states have initiated similar lawsuits against TikTok, alleging deceptive practices and violations of consumer fraud laws. Ellison emphasized the need for accountability, arguing that TikTok's design fosters compulsive usage, resulting in various mental health issues among minors, including depression and anxiety. Ellison's announcement highlighted specific features of TikTok, such as infinite scrolling and push notifications, which he claims increase the likelihood of excessive and compulsive use among children. According to Ellison, these features can lead to significant mental, physical, and financial injuries for users, particularly minors. By calling TikTok digital nicotine, Ellison compared its addictive qualities to those of traditional tobacco products, underscoring the serious health risks associated with its use. The Attorney General's office also noted that families affected by TikTok could submit complaints through their website. The issue is not isolated to Minnesota; states across the country have raised similar concerns regarding TikTok's impact on youth. Many lawsuits filed in recent years stemmed from a nationwide investigation into TikTok's effects launched by a bipartisan coalition of attorneys general from fourteen states in 2022. This investigation aimed to explore how the platform's addictive qualities can contribute to deteriorating mental health among young users, reflecting a growing awareness of the risks associated with social media platforms. In response to the allegations, TikTok representatives denied the claims, asserting that they had implemented various safety measures to protect users. The company highlighted features such as the Family Pairing tool, which allows parents to customize content and privacy settings for their children. However, as the legal landscape around TikTok continues to evolve, implications for the company's operations and its responsibilities toward its younger audience remain uncertain. The ongoing lawsuits will likely influence how social media platforms address concerns about addiction and user safety in the future.