Deadly social media ‘blackout challenge’ resurfaces, kills 9 children

(WHNT) — The resurgence of the social media epidemic has become a nightmare for several families who have lost children to the “game,” with many more reportedly dead.

of “Blackout Challenge” Also known as a “choking game” or “fainting challenge”, it prompts users to choke with a belt, purse string, or other similar item until they pass out. It dates back to at least 2008. 82 children died in 31 states As a result, from the mid-1990s to the mid-2000s. Most of the children who died were between the ages of 11 and 16.

The CDC said:

In 2021, the viral video app banned #BlackoutChallenge from search engines as the challenge resurfaced on TikTok.

Then, according to November 2022 Bloomberg Businessweek At least 15 deaths in children under the age of 12 have been reportedly associated with the challenge within 18 months, and an additional five deaths in children aged 13 and 14.

recent death Due to what happened last week. On January 13, a 12-year-old girl reportedly died. Argentina After attempting the challenge, according to local news outlets El Litoral.

tick tock, Familiar with dangerous virus challenges (dry food scooping, climbing high piles of milk crates, etc.) already facing wrongful death lawsuits In January 2021, a 10-year-old Italian girl was declared brain dead. She is said to have choked herself to death with a belt wrapped around her throat.

Officials across the country are paying attention to viral trends on various platforms and encouraging parents to know when their children are using social media and what they are using it for. doing.

According to the CDC, signs your child may be trying are:

  • bloodshot eyes
  • neck mark
  • severe headache
  • Confused after spending time alone
  • Tie ropes, scarves and belts to bedroom furniture and doorknobs, or tie them to the floor
  • Possessing unexplained items such as dog collars, collars, bungee cords

Communication is key, experts sayencourages parents to have open conversations about the risks involved with their children and the implications of peer pressure.

TikTok users are let’s flag People who clicked the “Report” button and entered the challenge.

Nexstar reached out to TikTok for comment on the challenge’s apparent resurfacing.

https://www.mystateline.com/news/deadly-social-media-blackout-challenge-resurfaces-more-child-deaths-reported/ Deadly social media ‘blackout challenge’ resurfaces, kills 9 children

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