TikTok is racing to remove a graphic video that has gone viral, which shows a man shooting himself with a gun. In its effort to get rid of the clip, TikTok has banned several accounts that are trying to re-upload the clip.
Graphic Videos on TikTok
The Verge reports that the clip opens with a man with a gray beard sitting at his desk. If you ever stumble upon a video like that, swipe away and report it to TikTok. The company said that the video first came from Facebook, which spread to other social media apps.
A TikTok rep also confirmed to the Verge that the explicit clips began spreading on Sunday night.
How Do You Know It’s the Graphic TikTok?
Many TikTok creators also warn that the graphic part of the footage hides inside tame-looking TikTok clips. Engadget also reports that the video appears on TikTok’s “For You” video feed, which shows users videos based on their history and interests.
If you’re just scrolling through your video feed, you may encounter this video. Be extra careful when you’re looking through your “For You” feed.
TikTok’s systems have begun flagging the clips for violating their user policy about content that “displays, praises, glorifies, or promotes suicide.” The company also thanked users who are reporting the video and warning others about it.
The National Suicide Prevention Hotline
Suicide is not a joke. It’s not a viral video that you can just laugh at and then forget. If you or someone you know is considering suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255.
Around 45,000 Americans die from suicide every year, according to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP).