Venezuela Fines TikTok $10 Million Over Deadly Viral Challenges

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 Venezuela’s Supreme Court has imposed a $10 million fine on TikTok, accusing the platform of failing to control viral challenges that have reportedly resulted in the deaths of three children.

Magistrate Tania D’Amelio announced on Monday that TikTok has eight days to pay the fine to the National Communications Commission (Conatel). The funds will be allocated to a special fund aimed at compensating victims of these challenges.

In addition to the fine, the court has ordered TikTok to establish an office in Venezuela to ensure better representation and accountability.


TikTok Faces Tightened Scrutiny

The court’s ruling accused TikTok of neglecting to implement measures to prevent the spread of harmful content, specifically viral challenges that allegedly led to the fatalities.

Magistrate D’Amelio cited three young victims but did not provide specific details about their cases. Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro previously stated in November that two of the children had died after participating in challenges involving the inhalation of toxic substances or the misuse of anxiety medications.

The court’s decision follows an appeal by the Bolivarian Movement of Aristóbulo Istúriz Families, which argued that such viral challenges have psychological and physical impacts on minors.

Demands for Accountability

TikTok has also been instructed to take stronger steps to monitor and restrict harmful content. The ruling reflects growing concerns about the influence of social media on vulnerable users, particularly children.

While the court did not specify what consequences TikTok might face if it fails to comply with the fine or establish a local office, the Venezuelan government has a history of imposing restrictions on digital platforms.

Broader Context

This is not the first time Venezuela has clashed with social media platforms. In August, the government suspended access to X (formerly Twitter) for 10 days after its owner, Elon Musk, questioned the results of the July 28 presidential election. Despite these restrictions, many Venezuelans continue to access blocked platforms through Virtual Private Networks (VPNs).

TikTok has yet to comment on the court's ruling. Meanwhile, the platform faces growing pressure to enhance its content moderation efforts and prevent further tragedies linked to viral challenges.

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