Lawsuit reveals TikTok algorithm promotes attractive users

Internal TikTok reports reveal its algorithm promotes attractive users, amid a lawsuit over harm to young people.

Recently unredacted internal reports from TikTok reveal that the app's algorithm promotes content featuring more attractive users while reducing the visibility of those deemed "unattractive." 

These findings were accidentally made public amid an ongoing lawsuit against TikTok, led by California and New York, along with 12 other states. The lawsuit targets TikTok for its harmful effects on young users, particularly regarding body image and mental health.

Kentucky Public Radio uncovered the unredacted text by copying sections of the court filings into a new document. The leaked reports show that TikTok’s algorithm favors users perceived as attractive and takes active steps to diminish content from those deemed less appealing. The platform allegedly promotes a narrow beauty standard, which officials argue negatively impacts its young user base.

This is not the first time TikTok has been accused of promoting beauty-related content. In 2021, beauty trends involving plastic surgery transformations and filters became popular, raising concerns. Recently, a beauty trend involving rubbing garlic on the face has emerged, prompting warnings from experts.

The lawsuit also highlights TikTok’s addictive nature. Internal documents revealed that 95% of smartphone users under 17 use the app regularly, with many experiencing disruptions to essential activities like sleep and schoolwork. One unnamed TikTok executive even noted that the app's algorithm can prevent users from "sleep, eating, and interacting socially."

California Attorney General Rob Bonta stated that TikTok intentionally targets children, knowing they lack the capacity to manage addictive content. New York AG Letitia James also criticized the harmful effects of beauty filters on young girls. TikTok’s spokesperson, Alex Haurek, dismissed the lawsuit's claims as misleading, emphasizing the company's safety features and efforts to protect young users. The lawsuit remains ongoing.