The Facts
Venezuela's Supreme Court on Monday imposed a $10M fine on TikTok for failing to implement measures preventing dangerous viral challenges that allegedly led to three adolescent deaths.
Judge Tania D'Amelio ordered TikTok to establish an office in Venezuela and gave the company eight days to pay the fine. The funds have been designated to create a victims' compensation program.
The Spin
Narrative A
The Venezuelan government must regulate social media platforms that fail to protect young users from dangerous content. TikTok clearly acted negligently and must face the consequences of not complying with local laws.
Narrative B
Venezuela has a history of restricting social media platforms, including blocking dozens of websites and taking radio stations off the air under Maduro's administration. The massive fine is another instance of government overreach and potential censorship.
