On December 3, 2025, the state of Hawaii announced a lawsuit against TikTok, a social media platform with a global reach of one billion users, including over 150 million in the United States khon2.com. The lawsuit reflects growing concerns about the platform's impact on the mental health and well-being of young users, a sentiment echoed by other states and legal bodies across the nation.
This legal action could have significant implications for businesses operating in Hawaii, particularly those that target children and adolescents in their marketing campaigns. The lawsuit's potential success might lead to stricter regulations on how digital platforms, including TikTok, can engage with young audiences. This could necessitate a reassessment of current advertising strategies and a shift toward more responsible and ethical marketing practices. Small businesses and startups, especially those reliant on social media for brand awareness and customer acquisition, may need to adapt swiftly. They might consider focusing on platforms with stronger youth safety measures or shifting marketing budgets toward more regulated channels.
The lawsuit draws attention to the addictive nature of TikTok's design, which uses algorithms to maximize user engagement. According to a recent CNN report, internal documents from social media companies like TikTok reveal that they were aware of the potential harm their platforms could have on their users, especially adolescents.
Similarly, STAT News detailed how more than a dozen states have filed a similar lawsuit against TikTok, alleging the app's addictive features are harming the youth. These features include 'infinite scroll', push notifications, and in-app purchases that exploit the dopamine rush to keep users hooked. The attorneys general are seeking action to curb the practices that cause the harms. These legal challenges reflect a broader trend of holding tech companies accountable for the effects of their platforms on public health.
For Hawaii's entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals, this lawsuit serves as a reminder of the evolving regulatory landscape surrounding digital platforms and the need to prioritize ethical considerations in business practices. Businesses must be proactive, staying informed about legal developments, and adopting strategies that align with consumer protection and youth safety.
