PORTLAND, Ore. ( KOIN ) — Both Oregon and Washington are taking legal action against TikTok, the popular social media app accused of exploiting its younger audience.
On Tuesday, Oregon Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum announced the lawsuit will be filed in Multnomah County Circuit Court on Wednesday. Her office alleged TikTok has violated the state’s consumer protection laws, namely those against unlawful trade practices.
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“Social media companies, out of basic greed, intentionally design their platforms to addict users and keep them scrolling,” Rosenblum said in a statement. “The more time users spend on the platform, the more money in Tik Tok’s pockets! Tragically, it is our youth who are most harmed by these predatory practices.”
Last year, Pew Research Center found that 63% of teenagers between the ages of 13 and 17 have used the app. The number grew to approximately 70% when considering those between the ages of 15 and 17.