Families file TikTok complaint in France alleging 'abuse of weakness'

Sixteen families filed a collective criminal complaint with the Paris prosecutor's office on Monday accusing TikTok of exploiting minors' vulnerability through addictive algorithms, with their lawyer alleging the platform creates "mental prisons" for adolescents and operates like "digital crack," according to French media. The families, represented by lawyer Laure Boutron-Marmion, target TikTok executives in France and internationally for alleged "abuse of weakness" — a criminal offense in France involving exploitation of vulnerable individuals.

Boutron-Marmion told Franceinfo the company has designed a "machine" specifically to exploit adolescent vulnerability. "We have a machine designed, developed to exploit this vulnerability. TikTok creates mental prisons for adolescents, prisons of distress," she said, adding that the effects resemble "digital crack." The complaint argues the platform's recommendation system generates strong addiction among minors through highly personalized content and continuous scrolling features.

Allegations of harm and suicide

Some families involved in the legal action have lost children to suicide, while others report cases of anorexia, depression and suicidal thoughts linked to platform usage. The lawyer contends TikTok executives are fully aware of how their algorithm operates and its damaging effects on young users but have failed to take meaningful action.

"It is a system of highly personalized recommendations and continuous scrolling that generates strong addiction and exploits adolescent vulnerability," Boutron-Marmion stated. "They know very well" the effects of the platform but "do nothing," she added, emphasizing that the families seek to bring the company before a French criminal court rather than settle for civil proceedings alone.

Calls for tighter regulation

The complaint also demands tighter regulation of social media platforms, including a potential ban on access for users under 15 — an idea currently under discussion within French political circles. Boutron-Marmion said the families refuse to limit their action to a simple complaint, signaling their determination to pursue criminal accountability.

Platform safety measures

TikTok has previously stated it has implemented more than 50 safety features and tools specifically designed for teenagers. The company continues to invest in age-appropriate and safe experiences for users, according to prior statements cited by French media.