Utah is suing TikTok as the state accused the social media platform of enabling child exploitation over one of its live-streaming features.
According to the lawsuit via CNN, Utah's Division of Consumer Protection alleged that TikTok LIVE operates similar to a "virtual strip club" as children are encouraged to commit "illicit acts" over monetary gain.
The lawsuit revolves around the "gifts" feature on TikTok LIVE, allowing strangers to send paid emojis to live-streamers as a sign of support.
However, the same feature also allows people to send requests to the content creators in exchange for high-priced "gifts," potentially creating "transactional sexual content" where children can be exploited, the lawsuit claimed.
The lawsuit was filed despite TikTok prohibiting minors under the age of 18 from using the LIVE feature.
The TikTok LIVE lawsuit is the second time Utah sued the app to supposedly protect children with the first one accusing TikTok of harming the children's mental health.
TikTok Still in Hot Waters Over Online Child Safety Concerns
Amid its legal battles to prevent a nationwide app ban, TikTok is also fighting several lawsuits over child safety concerns on the platform.
Aside from Utah, New York and Arkansas have also filed child protection cases against the video-sharing platform over its harmful influences on young users.
Last February's Senate hearing has also emphasized widespread concerns about the app's policies on minors and children as reports of sexual exploitation and bullying continue to ramp up.
In response to the Utah lawsuit, TikTok stated that the platform continues implementing "industry-leading policies and measures" to protect teens and children better.
TikTok Rolls Out New Child Safety Features for Young Users
Following its confrontation in Capitol Hill, TikTok has been rolling out new policies and algorithm changes on the platform as it tries to crack down on explicit content.
TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew has previously been reported meeting with a newly-formed youth council to address platform concerns.
Since the formation of the new safety team, TikTok has started blocking "problematic" content on the site as it tries to reduce children's exposure to harmful ideas.
Despite the changes, many users still report seeing explicit and sexual content on the platform as people hide sexual materials in filters, image comments, and throwaway accounts.
