News · 16 January 2026
Mother Seeks TikTok Accountability After Son's Death, Data Access
Ellen Roome, a bereaved mother from Gloucestershire, is suing TikTok, seeking accountability and access to her deceased son Julian's data. She believes TikTok's algorithms and challenges, like the "blackout challenge," contributed to his death and those of other children. Roome is campaigning for "Jools' Law" to allow parents access to their children's social media data after death. The lawsuit alleges TikTok's design promotes addiction and maximizes engagement, leading to tragic outcomes. A hearing is scheduled to address TikTok's attempt to dismiss the case.
Reported by BBC · How we write briefs