TikTok

Meta agreed to pay up to $17 billion over ten years to 48 U.S. states, settling allegations that its addictive design features harmed youth mental health. The settlement mandates age verification, a two-hour daily limit for users under 18, a midnight-to-6 a.m. block, removal of likes and extreme filters for minors, and non-algorithmic feed options. Meta denies wrongdoing but will implement these safeguards for 10 years. Critics argue the deal lets Meta define harm and leaves harmful algorithms as default.

11 reports · 7 sources · Updated Sep 3, 12:00 PM UTC

Meta Platforms agreed to pay up to $18 billion to settle a landmark lawsuit brought by 52 U.S. state and territory attorneys general alleging it illegally collected children’s data and designed Instagram and Facebook to be addictive to teens. The settlement includes $12.7 billion guaranteed, plus up to $5.3 billion contingent on TikTok and YouTube adopting similar safety measures. Meta will enforce default two-hour daily limits, nighttime blocks, muted school-hour notifications, and stricter age checks for users under 18. Meta denied wrongdoing but called for industry-wide standards.

16 reports · 9 sources · Updated Aug 30, 09:00 PM UTC

On August 24-25, 2026, New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced legislation to ban children under 16 from social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook, citing mental health and safety concerns. The bill would require age verification via facial estimation or digital ID, with fines up to 10% of global revenue for non-compliance. However, it lacks sufficient parliamentary support from coalition partners ACT and NZ First, and faces opposition from privacy groups. The move follows Australia’s similar ban in December 2025.

5 reports · 3 sources · Updated Aug 25, 04:28 AM UTC

Celebrity blogger Perez Hilton (Mario Lavandeira) was hospitalized late Tuesday after appearing to self-harm during a TikTok livestream at his Miami home. Police responded to multiple calls from concerned viewers, de-escalated the situation, and transported him to a hospital for medical and mental health care. His family confirmed he is receiving treatment and requested privacy. The incident follows Hilton’s recent hospitalization for sepsis and has raised concerns about livestreaming self-harm and mental health risks on social media.

24 reports · 3 sources · Updated Aug 17, 02:58 PM UTC

Meta removed 756,000 accounts (462,000 Instagram, 294,000 Facebook) of Australian users under 16 since December 2025, complying with a world-first social media ban. Despite this, over 80% of under-16s remain on platforms, with children finding workarounds. Australia’s regulator is considering enforcement lawsuits, and penalties have doubled to A$99 million. Meta uses AI for age detection and faces a parliamentary inquiry alongside TikTok, Google, and Snap.

6 reports · 4 sources · Updated Aug 13, 03:21 PM UTC

Multiple artists, including Katy Perry, Noah Kahan, Sabrina Carpenter, and Celine Dion, publicly condemned the Trump administration for using their songs without permission in White House social media videos. Perry criticized the use of "Firework" in a TikTok video celebrating U.S. military strikes on Iranian naval targets, calling it a "betrayal" of the song's message. The White House later doubled down by posting another video using Perry's "Part of Me." The incidents highlight ongoing disputes over unauthorized use of copyrighted music in politically sensitive government communications.

8 reports · 5 sources · Updated Jul 29, 10:48 PM UTC

OpenAI announced on Monday that it will more than triple its workforce at its European headquarters in Dublin to 350 employees. The ChatGPT maker currently employs over 100 people at its Dublin office, which opened in 2023, and plans to hire 250 more over the next two years in engineering and support operations. The company is leasing 8,000 square meters (88,000 square feet) of office space in Dublin's Silicon Docks area. Dublin hosts European headquarters for many US tech giants including Alphabet, Meta, and Microsoft. Foreign multinationals, particularly in tech and pharma, employ about 11% of Irish workers, attracted by the highly educated workforce and favorable tax regime. The announcement comes as some large tech firms like Meta and TikTok have cut jobs in Ireland, and the government has identified AI as a priority for attracting new investment.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 27, 11:43 AM UTC

OpenAI announced on July 27, 2026, that it will more than triple its workforce at its European headquarters in Dublin, Ireland, from over 100 to 350 employees. The ChatGPT maker is leasing 8,000 square meters of office space in Dublin's Silicon Docks area and plans to hire 250 additional staff over the next two years in engineering and support operations. Dublin hosts the European headquarters of many US tech giants like Alphabet, Meta, and Microsoft. Foreign multinationals, particularly in tech and pharma, employ about 11% of Irish workers, attracted by the highly educated workforce and favorable tax regime. The announcement comes amid recent job cuts by Meta and TikTok in Ireland, with the government highlighting AI as a priority for attracting new investment.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 27, 11:43 AM UTC

Vietnam is drafting new rules to restrict social media access for children under 16, barring them from posting, commenting, sharing, or reacting on platforms. Accounts for minors must be registered using a parent's or guardian's information, who will supervise content and screen time. Social media companies will be required to identify child users and ensure age-appropriate content exposure. The move stops short of a full ban, unlike Australia's recent law, and aims to protect children from cyberbullying, fraud, and pornography. The draft decree also proposes limiting online gaming for children to 60 minutes per day. Vietnam has large social media user bases, with 89 million Facebook accounts and 80 million TikTok users. The policy follows similar actions in Australia, Indonesia, and Malaysia. Meta has noted technical challenges in enforcing passive-only usage, as behavioral signals needed to identify child users would diminish.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 27, 02:42 AM UTC

Vietnam is drafting new rules to restrict social media access for children under 16, barring them from posting, commenting, sharing, or reacting on platforms. Accounts for minors must be registered using a parent's or guardian's information, who will supervise content and screen time. Social media companies will be required to identify child users and ensure age-appropriate content. The move stops short of a full ban, unlike Australia's recent law, and aims to protect children from cyberbullying, fraud, and pornography. The draft decree also proposes limiting online gaming for children to 60 minutes per day. Vietnam has large social media user bases, with 89 million Facebook accounts and 80 million TikTok users. The policy follows similar actions in Australia, Indonesia, and Malaysia. Meta has warned that passive-only use by children could reduce behavioral signals needed to identify and protect them online.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 27, 02:42 AM UTC

An Oklahoma social media influencer, identified as Sara Gilson, was killed in an apparent murder-suicide by her estranged husband, according to police. The incident occurred after Gilson publicly accused her husband of pedophilia on TikTok. Her ex-partner had reportedly begged her to break up with the husband before the murder. Owasso Police released a timeline linking the case to a federal child sex crime investigation. The husband is believed to have shot Gilson and then himself. The case has drawn significant media attention due to the influencer's online presence and the nature of the accusations.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 26, 03:37 PM UTC

On July 26, a TikTok creator posted a message questioning Real Madrid's interest in signing Jan-Diomande, criticizing the club for spending 100 million euros on him instead of signing Barcola and Olise. The netizen suggested Diomande is not good enough for Real Madrid and predicted another trophy-less season. In response, Diomande reposted the message on his TikTok story and replied with two thumbs-up emojis (👍👍), widely interpreted as a mocking or dismissive gesture. The incident was reported by Hupu, a Chinese sports news platform, and has sparked discussion among football fans.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 26, 03:05 PM UTC

TikTok is testing a new subscription membership program called TikTok Shop Plus for US shoppers, according to screenshots viewed by Business Insider. The program, integrated into TikTok Shop, offers perks similar to Amazon Prime, including free shipping, product discounts, and coupons. Pricing is being tested at $6, $10, or $15 per month. The move aims to prevent users from browsing products on TikTok and then purchasing them on Amazon, a pattern a former employee described as a long-standing challenge. TikTok has hired dozens of former Amazon staffers and adopted similar internal practices. While TikTok's US e-commerce business is forecast to reach $23 billion in sales this year, it remains small compared to Amazon's expected $500 billion in US sales by 2026. The program is part of TikTok's long-term strategy to build a shopping marketplace rivaling its Chinese sister app Douyin.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 24, 08:33 PM UTC

The Pentagon announced a 10-year contract with Oracle worth up to $7 billion to supply on-premises software to the U.S. Department of Defense, intelligence community, and Coast Guard. The deal includes perpetual and subscription-based licenses, maintenance, and consulting. Oracle's stock rose about 3% in extended trading following the announcement. The DoD's CIO stated the contract saves at least $441 million for taxpayers by improving procurement of Oracle capabilities. The article also notes Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison's political ties to President Donald Trump, including a $45 million campaign donation and involvement in the Stargate AI data center project. Despite the contract win, Oracle shares are down 38% in 2026 due to investor concerns that AI could hurt software incumbents and the company's rising debt from AI data center buildouts.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 24, 02:12 PM UTC

The European Commission has preliminarily found that TikTok’s default account settings for users aged 13-18 violate the EU’s Digital Services Act (DSA). The investigation, launched in February 2024, identified risks including easy switching from private to public accounts, identifiable teen profiles, and algorithmic exposure of minors’ content. The Commission demands stricter default privacy settings and restrictions on content sharing. TikTok faces a potential fine of up to 6% of global turnover (potentially €1.2 billion) and has been given an opportunity to respond.

7 reports · 3 sources · Updated Jul 24, 01:43 PM UTC

Amazon is requiring third-party sellers to label product images and videos that contain AI-generated people, following a recently enacted New York law that mandates disclosure when advertisements use 'synthetic performers' in place of human actors. The policy, announced to sellers on Wednesday, applies to photos, videos, and 'A+ content' on listing pages, requiring specific metadata keywords before upload. Amazon will add an indicator to listings informing consumers about AI-generated people where applicable. The requirement does not apply to content featuring TV, video game, or movie characters, or real people altered by AI. The New York law, described as 'first-in-the-nation' by Governor Kathy Hochul, took effect last month. There is no federal law requiring such disclosure, though states like California have taken steps to mandate AI content watermarks. Other platforms including Meta, TikTok, and YouTube have also introduced AI-generated content labels.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 24, 12:36 AM UTC

Amazon is requiring third-party sellers to label product images and videos that contain AI-generated people, following a recently enacted New York law that mandates disclosure when advertisements use 'synthetic performers' instead of human actors. The policy, announced to sellers on Wednesday, applies to photos, videos, and 'A+ content' on listing pages. Amazon will add an indicator to listings informing consumers when AI-generated people are featured. The requirement does not apply to TV, video game, or movie characters, or content with real people altered by AI. The New York law, described as 'first-in-the-nation' by Governor Kathy Hochul, took effect last month. There is no federal law requiring AI disclosure in advertising, though states like California have taken steps. Other platforms including Meta, TikTok, and YouTube have added AI content labels but have faced criticism for inadequate enforcement.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 24, 12:36 AM UTC

An EU expert panel, commissioned by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, has recommended banning social media access for children under 13 across all 27 member states, with supervised use only. The report, delivered in Brussels, also targets AI bots and video games. France has separately enacted a law banning social media for minors under 15, becoming the first EU country to do so. Von der Leyen plans to propose EU legislation in September, while several member states pursue their own restrictions.

8 reports · 5 sources · Updated Jul 23, 03:53 AM UTC

Four U.S. states—California, Colorado, Kentucky, and New Jersey—are seeking $1.4 trillion in penalties from Meta, alleging Facebook and Instagram were designed to addict young users and that the company misled the public about platform safety. The figure nearly equals Meta’s market cap. A trial is set for August 2026 in Oakland, with 29 states also pursuing federal claims. Meta denies wrongdoing, calling the demand unprecedented and unsupported. The case is part of broader litigation, including a recent $375 million verdict against Meta in New Mexico.

12 reports · 2 sources · Updated Jul 22, 08:36 PM UTC

Paramount+ is planning to add micro dramas—short, vertical, soapy series with snack-sized episodes—to its mobile app in the coming months, according to an internal town hall presentation seen by Business Insider. The initiative aims to build 'mobile daily habits at scale' by recalibrating consumption behavior as audiences watch on the go. Paramount+ has already added a short-form video feed to its app, following a broader Hollywood trend. Netflix, Disney+, and Peacock have also embraced short-form content, with Peacock licensing shows from ReelShort. The move comes as Paramount Skydance deals with legal challenges to its Warner Bros. Discovery merger, which a federal judge temporarily blocked after a lawsuit by 12 states.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 07:45 PM UTC

Major social media platforms, including YouTube, TikTok, Substack, Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, and Threads, are increasingly updating their content guidelines to restrict low-quality, machine-generated content, often referred to as 'AI slop.' The article, published by Business Insider on July 22, 2026, reports that these platforms are navigating a fine line between embracing AI tools and preventing the proliferation of spammy, automated posts that degrade user experience. The crackdown is particularly focused on monetized accounts, where creators may use AI to generate large volumes of content quickly to maximize revenue. The report highlights a growing industry-wide effort to maintain content quality and trust as generative AI becomes more accessible.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 06:53 PM UTC

The article examines the viral TikTok trend 'salt stomping,' where users stand on a layer of salt (Epsom, Himalayan, or table salt) for about 10 minutes at night, claiming it improves sleep by exfoliating feet, reducing inflammation, and shifting the nervous system to 'rest mode.' HuffPost UK consulted sleep scientist Dr Sophie Bostock, who stated there is no scientific evidence specifically supporting salt stomping for deep sleep enhancement. However, she noted that any calming bedtime ritual can help signal safety to the brain and reduce stress, potentially improving sleep quality. Dr Bostock also highlighted the placebo effect: if individuals believe the practice helps, they are likely to fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer, especially if they are anxious. The article concludes that while salt stomping may not have unique medical benefits, its value lies in being a relaxing ritual, similar to reading or yoga.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 09:31 AM UTC

TikTok is piloting alcohol sales on its TikTok Shop platform in the UK, strictly enforcing a three-stage age verification process to block under-18s from buying or viewing alcohol. The social media giant is working with a small group of approved, licensed retailers, selling products such as Johnnie Walker Black Label whisky and AU Vodka. Users under 18 cannot access TikTok Shop or see ecommerce content. Age checks occur at account creation, checkout, and delivery, where drivers verify government-issued ID. The move comes amid heightened scrutiny from Ofcom, which is investigating whether TikTok's age assurance systems comply with the Online Safety Act. The UK government also plans to ban under-16s from major social media platforms next year. TikTok says it is confident in its compliance and has invested billions in online safety. The alcohol pilot marks TikTok's expansion into a tightly regulated retail category as it transforms from a video-sharing app into a major ecommerce platform, with sales growing rapidly.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 07:29 AM UTC

HuffPost UK reports that Jade Thirlwall and Jordan Stephens are the subject of tabloid speculation they have split after six years together. The Sun, citing an undisclosed source, claimed the couple parted ways earlier this year after 'frank discussions about their future' but remain 'close'. Neither star has commented. Fans noted Jordan deleted recent joint TikTok videos and the pair have not appeared on each other's social media for some time. Their last public appearance was at the Brit Awards in February. Jordan recently posted from a solo retreat, joking about not replying. Jade is working on her second solo album following the success of her debut.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 06:47 AM UTC

Business Insider reports that major social platforms including YouTube, TikTok, Substack, Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, and Threads are updating their content guidelines to address the proliferation of low-quality, machine-generated content, often referred to as 'AI slop.' The platforms are navigating a fine line between embracing AI tools and preventing the degradation of content quality, particularly for monetized accounts. The article details specific policy changes and enforcement measures being implemented by each platform to curb spammy, automated, or derivative AI content while still allowing legitimate AI-assisted creativity. The report highlights the growing challenge for social media companies in maintaining content standards as generative AI becomes more accessible and widely used by creators.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 12:26 AM UTC

This Forbes opinion piece critiques Wall Street Journal columnist Allysia Finley's claims that TikTok fuels socialism and opposition to the Iran war, and may have helped Donald Trump win the 2024 election. The author argues Finley's narrative mirrors Barack Obama's earlier complaints about Fox News, suggesting conservatives now adopt a victimhood script. The piece highlights contradictions in Finley's arguments, such as Trump's own war fatigue and the Journal's historical skepticism of government competence. It also notes that TikTok's popularity undermines claims of it being a government-run entity, and that American war exhaustion predates the platform. The analysis concludes that Finley's focus on TikTok as a scapegoat ignores broader political and economic factors.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 09:30 PM UTC

Anna von Villiez, Hamburg's newly appointed commissioner for Jewish life and the fight against antisemitism, introduced her priorities on July 21, 2026, after three weeks in office. The 51-year-old historian emphasized she wants to shape policy, not just react to incidents. Her main focuses include combating antisemitism in schools and universities, addressing online hatred on platforms like TikTok, and increasing the visibility of Jewish life in Hamburg. She noted a significant worsening of antisemitism since the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, particularly Israel-related antisemitism. Von Villiez called for more educational offerings, stronger anchoring of antisemitism sensitivity in teacher training, and a joint task force against digital antisemitism. She also positioned herself against the Senate's course on a controversial issue, signaling independence. Her appointment was made by the Senate at the end of June.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 08:53 PM UTC

TikTok's U.S. chief security officer, Will Farrell, will testify before the U.S. House Select Committee on China on September 15, according to a congressional aide. This marks the first public testimony by a TikTok U.S. executive since ByteDance finalized a deal to split the U.S. app from its global business. Lawmakers are expected to question Farrell about data privacy, cybersecurity, and the role of former President Donald Trump in brokering the split, as well as potential Chinese government involvement in the U.S. app. The testimony follows a 2024 U.S. law requiring ByteDance to sell TikTok or face a ban, driven by national security concerns. The American-owned joint venture, TikTok USDS Joint Venture LLC, was formed to avoid a ban, with managing investors including Oracle, Silver Lake, and Abu Dhabi-based MGX.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 04:36 PM UTC

TikTok US chief security officer Will Farrell will testify before the U.S. House Select Committee on China on September 15, according to a Congressional aide. Farrell, who oversees data privacy and cybersecurity, will answer questions about the company's split from its Chinese owner ByteDance. This is the first public testimony by a TikTok US executive since ByteDance finalized a deal to separate the U.S. app from its global business. The hearing will allow lawmakers to inquire about President Donald Trump's role in brokering the split and Chinese involvement in the U.S. app. The testimony follows a 2024 U.S. law requiring ByteDance to sell the app or face a ban, driven by national security concerns. The American-owned joint venture, TikTok USDS Joint Venture LLC, was established to avoid a ban, with managing investors including Oracle, Silver Lake, and MGX.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 04:36 PM UTC

The Economist article examines the trend of Gen Z hikers getting lost in mountains, attributing it to social media inspiration outweighing preparation. It profiles Schotty Boy, a hiking influencer with over 100,000 followers on Instagram and TikTok, who posts moody, misty images from the Scottish Highlands while often carrying sensible gear but sometimes appearing topless. The piece suggests that following social media leads hikers to set off with more enthusiasm than practical readiness, contributing to incidents of getting lost.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 11:52 AM UTC