Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin has filed a lawsuit against Snap, Inc., the parent company of Snapchat, alleging the social media platform put minors at risk while misleading parents about the safety of its features.
The lawsuit alleges Snap engaged in deceptive and unconscionable trade practices, created a public nuisance affecting the health and safety of Arkansans, and unjustly profited at the expense of children’s wellbeing.
Griffin said Snapchat’s disappearing messages, cosmetic filters, curated content, and My AI chatbot exposed children to dangers including sextortion, online grooming, violent content, illegal drug marketplaces, and harmful advice.
The lawsuit also claims Snapchat’s disappearing message feature gave minors a false sense of security while making it easier for predators, traffickers, drug dealers, and other offenders to target children. Griffin alleges Arkansas law enforcement, educators, and parents have repeatedly identified Snapchat as a platform commonly used to exploit minors.
In addition, the lawsuit claims Snapchat was intentionally designed to encourage excessive use by exploiting the developmental vulnerabilities of teenagers through features that reward constant engagement.
Griffin also alleges Snapchat has failed to effectively enforce its minimum age requirement of 13, relying primarily on self-reported birthdates that children can easily bypass.
The Attorney General is seeking injunctive relief, civil penalties, damages, restitution, and other remedies available under Arkansas law.
In announcing the lawsuit, Griffin said, “Snap built its fortune on messages that disappear without a trace. But the permanent damage to Arkansas children—and Snap’s responsibility for that damage—will not fade away.”
The lawsuit represents allegations made by the Arkansas Attorney General’s Office. Snap, Inc. will have the opportunity to respond to the claims in court.
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