Venezuela’s top court has fined TikTok $10 million for its role in viral challenges that led to the deaths of three children and injuries to several others.
The court on Monday ruled that TikTok must pay the fine to the country’s telecommunications agency within 10 days and establish a local office in Venezuela, according to Bloomberg.
The court summoned TikTok officials last month to address the deaths of three children, aged 12 to 14, who died after participating in dangerous viral challenges, which allegedly involved ingesting or inhaling harmful chemicals.
President Nicolás Maduro had condemned these challenges.
The court held TikTok responsible for its failure to adequately monitor and control such content.
The $10 million fine will be directed toward a compensation fund for the victims.
TikTok has not responded to requests for comment regarding the ruling.
Venezuelan President, Nicolás Maduro has been critical of social media platforms like TikTok and WhatsApp, especially following a crackdown on opposition groups after his controversial self-declared victory in the July presidential election.
