Get the latest tech news
TikTok’s algorithm appears to be boosting LA wildfire misinformation
TikTok has become a cesspool of conspiracy theories and misinformation as wildfires continue to devastate the Los Angeles region, and evidence suggests TikTok’s algorithm launched them into virality.These videos have already racked up millions of views, and the view count on each video reviewed by Media Matters far exceeds the number of followers on the respective account, suggesting that TikTok’s recommendation algorithm spread the content to millions of users.
Some users are baselessly claiming that the wildfires were intentionally started to cover up alleged incriminating evidence in Combs’ trial — the conspiracy theories vary, but that’s the core of it. Another video, with over 5.3 million views, commented on the timing of the fire, suggesting that celebrities are “burning the evidence” ahead of Combs’ trial. TikTok’s algorithm appears to be amplifying unfounded conspiracy theories to millions of users, fueling panic and uncertainty at a time when clear information is critical.
Or read this on r/technology
