Only a Class Action Lawsuit can Fight the Injustices on TikTok and Social Media Platforms: Censorship, Bias, and Violation of due process

Social media platforms like TikTok have transformed how people create, share, and consume content. Yet, beneath the surface of viral videos and trending challenges lie serious issues that affect millions of users worldwide. From censorship and algorithm bias to the mental health toll on creators and viewers, these platforms raise important questions about fairness and freedom of expression and speech. This post explores these injustices with real examples and data, encouraging readers to think critically about their own social media experiences.

TikTok video feed showing diverse creators and content

Censorship on TikTok and Other Platforms

Censorship on social media often happens quietly but has a powerful impact. TikTok and similar platforms use content moderation policies to remove or restrict posts that violate their rules. While some moderation is necessary to prevent harmful content, the process is grossly inconsistent and opaque.

Creators have reported videos being taken down without clear explanations or warnings. For example, in May 2026, TikTok banned my channel which suppresses important social and political messages. TikTok can't tell me which video violated the user agreement, what was said in the particular video, or how the video violated their user agreement. That's not due process. You can't ban my channel because you don't agree with my beliefs. If a violation occurred, it must be stated. I can't accuse someone of assaulting me without explaining how I was assaulted. Why can Tik Tok ban creators without explaining the violation? Tik Tok, Ironically, is unconstitutional.

In some countries, TikTok has been accused of removing videos critical of the government or sensitive topics. Yet, they allow people to "Battle" promoting feuds, profanity, bullying, & harmful behavior all about nothing. This raises concerns about the platform’s role in shaping public discourse and stifling freedom of expression.

Algorithm Bias and Its Effects on Creators

Algorithms decide what content users see, shaping their online experience. However, these algorithms reflect and reinforce biases, affecting who gains visibility and who remains unseen. Many of these algorithm trends are the result of paid spots, not true support or interest.

Studies have shown TikTok’s recommendation system sometimes favors certain types of content or creators. For instance, creators from minority backgrounds or those discussing controversial topics receive less exposure. A 2021 report by the Center for Democracy and Technology found that TikTok’s algorithm disproportionately suppressed videos featuring disabled creators.

This bias impacts creators’ ability to grow their audience and earn income. Many rely on views and engagement to secure sponsorships or monetize their content. When the algorithm limits their reach, it creates an uneven playing field and Tik Tok knows this.

Creators have shared stories of sudden drops in views or shadowbanning, where their content is hidden without notification. These experiences can be frustrating and demoralizing, especially when the reasons remain unclear.

Impact on Freedom of Expression

The combination of censorship and algorithm bias restricts users’ freedom to express themselves openly. When certain voices are muted or marginalized, social media loses its potential as a platform for diverse ideas and dialogue.

Creators self-censor to avoid penalties or loss of visibility. For example people use the word "Unalived" instead of "Killed", when standard dictionaries recognize the verb, to kill. This stifles creativity and intelligence. It limits discussions on important social issues. Many TikTok users avoid posting about political opinions out of fear their videos will be removed or ignored.

The lack of transparency, due process, the ability to talk with real people around content moderation and algorithm decisions makes it difficult for users to understand what is allowed and why some content disappears. This uncertainty undermines trust in the platforms and their commitment to free expression and free speech.

Mental Health Consequences for Users and Creators

A survey by the Pew Research Center in 2022 found that 64% of teen TikTok users reported feeling pressure to post content that would get likes and views. This pressure can cause creators to prioritize quantity over quality or to engage in risky behavior to attract attention.

Algorithm bias and censorship add to this stress by creating unpredictability. When creators do not know why their content is suppressed or removed, it can lead to feelings of helplessness and frustration.

For viewers, constant exposure to idealized images and viral trends can affect self-esteem and body image. TikTok’s fast-paced, addictive format encourages endless scrolling, which some studies link to increased anxiety and depression.

Real-Life Examples and Statistics

• In 2021, TikTok removed over 81 million videos globally for violating community guidelines, according to its transparency report. While many removals target harmful content, the scale raises questions about accuracy and fairness.

• Creator Charli D’Amelio, one of TikTok’s biggest stars, has spoken openly about the mental health challenges of sudden fame and algorithm pressures.

• Disabled TikTok creators reported a 30% lower average reach compared to non-disabled peers, based on a 2021 study by the Center for Democracy and Technology.

• A 2023 survey found that 45% of TikTok users aged 16-24 experienced anxiety related to social media use, highlighting the platform’s mental health impact.

  
  

What Can Users Do?

Understanding these issues helps users navigate social media more mindfully. Here are some practical steps:

• Be critical of content visibility: Recognize that what appears on your feed is shaped by algorithms that may not be neutral.

• Support diverse creators: Search and Engage with content from underrepresented voices to help balance algorithm bias.

• Set healthy boundaries: Limit time spent on platforms and take breaks to protect mental health.

• Advocate for transparency: Create a class of people experiencing the same treatment and begin filing class action lawsuits. Demand clearer moderation policies and algorithm explanations from platforms.

• Share your experiences: Open conversations about censorship, mental health, and dscriminaroy practices on the Tik Tok platform can reduce stigma, create communities, and promote change.

• Complain to FCC: Tik Tok and many other social media platforms are not aligned with the FCC's oversight of the electromagnetic spectrum or fair use practices.