Leaked Documents Reveal TikTok’s Algorithm Favors “Attractive” Users

<p>Internal documents from TikTok that were inadvertently made public reveal that the platform’s algorithm tends to promote content featuring individuals perceived as more attractive, while diminishing the visibility of those deemed “less attractive.” </p>

In light of an ongoing lawsuit involving TikTok, led by attorneys general from California and New York, previously concealed internal reports have surfaced.

This research, conducted within TikTok, investigated the possible detrimental impacts of the app on younger audiences. As reported by NPR, these details were revealed after Kentucky Public Radio discovered that copying and pasting excerpts from court documents resulted in exposing redacted sections.

Among the alarming findings was the revelation that it takes just 35 minutes for users to become addicted to TikTok, alongside additional insights into the algorithm’s preference for more attractive individuals.

When “a significant number of unattractive users” began appearing on For You pages, TikTok reportedly made adjustments. The internal study suggests that the platform intentionally enhanced the visibility of users deemed attractive by the company’s standards.

Conversely, for those labeled as unattractive, the documents assert that their content was deliberately marginalized, indicating that the app took measures to endorse a narrow standard of beauty, potentially jeopardizing the well-being of their younger user base, according to the authorities in Kentucky.

Experts warn against rubbing garlic on face TikTok trend — TIKTOK: selinadasilvaa, cb.nofilter

Some beauty trends that gained traction on TikTok include the controversial advice to rub garlic on the skin, which experts have cautioned against.

This isn’t the first instance where TikTok faced scrutiny over its algorithm favoring more attractive individuals on the For You page. In 2021, a number of beauty trends emerged, including transformations through plastic surgery and the extensive use of beauty filters.

A new beauty craze even encourages users to apply garlic to their skin, something that experts are now warning against.

Additional insights from the leaked documents indicate that 95% of smartphone users under 17 engage with TikTok at least monthly.

The findings also suggest that TikTok acknowledged internally that frequent use of the app negatively affected vital personal responsibilities such as getting adequate sleep, maintaining work/school obligations, and fostering connections with others.

An unnamed TikTok executive remarked that the app’s algorithm disrupts users’ essential activities, such as “sleeping, eating, moving around, and making eye contact with others.”

Nevertheless, a company spokesperson refuted NPR’s reporting, asserting that it selectively quotes outdated documents, misrepresenting TikTok’s dedication to community safety.

Studio Ghibli TikTok filter — TIKTOK: isleepfortheweak

While some filters are created for amusement, the impact of beauty filters on young users is a growing concern.

The ongoing lawsuit involving the platform has seen participation from several attorneys general.

California Attorney General Rob Bonta has asserted that “TikTok intentionally targets children, knowing they lack the defenses to establish healthy boundaries against addictive content.”

He further emphasized the need to hold the app responsible for the negative impacts it has had on American children’s time and childhood experiences. New York AG Letitia James is particularly highlighting the adverse effects of beauty filters. “Beauty filters have been particularly harmful to young girls,” she remarked, noting their association with body image issues, eating disorders, body dysmorphia, and other health complications.

In response, TikTok spokesman Alex Haurek characterized the lawsuit’s allegations as misleading, stating, “We implement substantial safety measures, actively eliminate suspected underage users, and have introduced features such as default screen time limits, family pairing, and default privacy settings for users under 16.”

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