Study finds TikTok amplifies organized crime content throughout Palestinian society in Israel
LONDON: In one corner of the internet, tucked between flashy dance challenges and viral recipes, a young TikTok user stops scrolling to watch a gang member preach hate.
The idea that TikTok, like any major social platform, hosts violent and hateful content may not be new. But the message this boy sees is different: it glorifies power, dominance and the ability to act with impunity.
A new study says this is no isolated case. TikTok is increasingly being used by organized crime networks in Palestinian society inside Israel to promote violence, build criminal identities and recruit young people, with the platform’s algorithms helping to amplify such content.
The report, released late in July by 7amleh, the Arab Center for the Advancement of Social Media, warns that criminal groups are exploiting TikTok not only to share violent footage but also to market their services, display power and influence, and expand their reach online.
