TikTok Study Reveals Troubling Search Suggestions

A recent study conducted by Finnish methodologies company CheckFirst and fact-checking service Faktabaari unveiled concerning findings regarding TikTok’s search suggestions. The study, part of the CrossOver project, highlighted issues of objectification, sexism, and misinformation targeting female politicians.

Objectification and Sexism in Search Suggestions

The study found that search suggestions for prominent female politicians like former Prime Minister Sanna Marin included derogatory and objectifying terms, such as “Sanna Marin masturbation video.” This kind of language not only perpetuates harmful stereotypes but also undermines the credibility and integrity of the individuals.

Additionally, suggestions for other female politicians, like Eva Biaudet, contained inappropriate and false claims, further emphasizing the need for proper moderation and oversight on the platform.

Negative Information and Bias

Search suggestions often portrayed politicians, both male and female, in a negative light. For instance, phrases like “turncoat” for Mauri Peltokangas and “abducting children” for Pekka Haavisto were highlighted in the study, showcasing the potential bias and misinformation present in TikTok’s search results.

Harmful Language and Misinformation

Not only were female politicians targeted, but the study also revealed harmful language against marginalized groups, including women, Jewish people, and the LGBT community. Search suggestions promoting misogynistic and discriminatory phrases contribute to the spread of hate speech and bigotry on the platform.

Moreover, controversial suggestions related to COVID-19, such as “vaccine harms” and “vaccine fear,” raised concerns about misinformation and vaccine skepticism among users.

Platform Responsibility and Recommendations

The report emphasized the need for TikTok to enhance its moderation efforts and combat harmful content effectively. Recommendations included exploring alternative methods to provide accurate information, especially during election periods, and addressing the spread of misinformation through search suggestions.

While TikTok stated that it dedicates resources to safeguarding its platform integrity, the study suggests that more proactive measures are required to ensure a safe and reliable user experience.