The Supreme Court of Justice (TSJ) in Venezuela has slapped TikTok with a hefty $10 million fine for failing to implement adequate measures to curb the spread of viral challenges, which authorities claim have led to the tragic deaths of three minors in the country. Tania D'Amelio, President of the Constitutional Chamber of the TSJ, declared that the Chinese-owned platform must pay the penalty to the National Telecommunications Commission (Conatel) within eight days, as reported by the EFE news agency. Failure to comply with this could result in further legal actions to enforce the ruling.
Among the directives issued, TikTok is required to establish a presence in Venezuela to monitor the content shared on the social media platform, with the goal of protecting the physical, psychological, and emotional well-being of its users, particularly minors. "This is intended to enhance user safety and preserve their physical, psychological, and emotional integrity by effectively and promptly controlling content related to so-called viral challenges," emphasized D'Amelio.
The TSJ also mandated the creation of a fund using the fine's proceeds to compensate the victims' families.
This case originated from a motion filed by the Bolivarian Movement of Aristóbulo Istúriz Families, which highlighted the dangers of viral challenges on social networks and called for measures to safeguard children and teenagers. Authorities have reported that these challenges have resulted not only in fatalities but also in numerous injuries and instances of poisoning across the nation.
This decision sets a precedent in Venezuela regarding the regulation of digital content and the accountability of platforms in distributing potentially hazardous material.
In a broader campaign against social media, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, in August, accused TikTok, owned by Chinese entrepreneur Zhang Yiming, of inciting civil conflict within the country. These accusations emerged as international scrutiny mounted over Maduro's alleged victory in the July 28 elections, prompting mass protests from Venezuelans disputing the official results.
Maduro has also taken steps to block other networks such as X and previously urged citizens to uninstall WhatsApp, platforms that were crucial for information dissemination amidst widespread censorship in Venezuela. "Look at how immoral TikTok is. I accuse the global directors and owners of TikTok of wanting civil war in Venezuela, of supporting fascism in Latin America and around the world," he stated during a meeting with top state officials.
Impact of TikTok's Legal Challenges in Venezuela
What led to TikTok's fine in Venezuela?
TikTok was fined for not taking sufficient measures to prevent the dissemination of viral challenges that reportedly resulted in the deaths of three minors in Venezuela.
What actions has the Venezuelan Supreme Court ordered TikTok to take?
The court has instructed TikTok to establish a local representation in Venezuela to oversee content and create a fund from the fine to address the damages caused to victims.
What broader actions has President Maduro taken against social media?
President Maduro has accused TikTok of inciting civil unrest and has blocked other platforms like X, while also urging the removal of WhatsApp to control information flow amid censorship in Venezuela.