Birmingham has been identified as the worst area in the UK for TikTok-related crimes targeting children, according to data obtained through a Freedom of Information request. West Midlands Police recorded 2,208 incidents between 2023 and 2025, with 1,087 offences involving child victims, including 274 children under the age of 13.
Regional Hotspots
Sandwell and Walsall also rank highly in the national figures, placing sixth and ninth respectively with 564 and 459 recorded incidents. Violence against the person was the most common type of offence across the region, according to the data obtained by JF Law.
The figures place Birmingham at the top of a concerning national league table, ahead of Bradford (1,121 crimes) and Leeds (985 crimes). While TikTok was mentioned in police reports, the company clarified this does not mean the app directly caused the incidents.
Expert Warning
Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority specialist Ellie Lamey warned: "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."
TikTok responded by highlighting its commitment to user safety, stating it provides teen accounts with more than 50 preset safety features and works closely with UK police forces to assist investigations and remove illegal activity where appropriate.
