Birmingham has been identified as the UK's worst hotspot for crimes linked to TikTok, with West Midlands Police recording 2,208 offences between 2023 and 2025, according to a Freedom of Information request. The data, obtained by law firm JF Law, reveals that predators are targeting children on the platform, with 1,087 child victims across the West Midlands, including 274 under the age of 13.
Regional Impact and Offence Types
Sandwell and Walsall also feature prominently in the top 10, with 564 and 459 incidents respectively, ranking sixth and ninth nationally. The most common offence type in the West Midlands was violence against the person. While TikTok was cited in police reports, the company emphasised that this does not necessarily mean the app directly caused the incidents, only that it was heavily mentioned alongside the offence.
Expert Warning on Child Safety
Ellie Lamey, a Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority specialist at JF Law, said: “The sheer volume of these cases is a stark warning to parents and authorities alike. We are seeing everyday platforms being weaponised by predators to target our youngest and most vulnerable, turning a harmless online space into a digital hunting ground. The trauma inflicted by cyber-stalking, harassment, and online-facilitated abuse has profound, real-world consequences that can completely shatter a family's sense of security.”
TikTok's Safety Measures
TikTok stated its commitment to user safety, noting that teen accounts come with over 50 preset safety, privacy, and security features. The platform works with regional UK police forces to assist investigations and swiftly remove illegal activity where appropriate.
National Top 10 Hotspots
The UK's top 10 TikTok-related crime hotspots are: Birmingham (2,208), Bradford (1,121), Leeds (985), Mid Glamorgan (772), Cardiff and the Vale (675), Sandwell (564), Kirklees (548), Luton Borough (529), Walsall (459), and Wakefield (449).
