New York’s attorney general has accused TikTok of conducting a deceptive experiment on teenagers and children by providing them with a placebo version of a safety feature designed to limit screen time. The investigation suggests the company tested whether users would notice or care about the absence of a real tool meant to protect younger audiences. Authorities claim this practice undermined parental controls and raised concerns about transparency in how the platform handles user data and well-being. The allegations highlight broader questions about tech companies’ ethical responsibilities toward vulnerable demographics.
TikTok gave teens, children placebo safety feature in experiment, New York alleges Reuters
