Trendpills
The quest for viral fame is driving a troubling surge in "performance crimes," where individuals commit illegal acts and broadcast them on social media platforms, particularly TikTok. This phenomenon blurs the line between content creation and criminal activity, presenting new challenges for law enforcement agencies across the United States. These acts are often inspired by online trends or challenges that promise widespread attention in exchange for dangerous or unlawful behavior.
One of the most prominent examples has been the "Kia Boys" trend, which spread rapidly on TikTok and other platforms. The trend involved users posting instructional videos on how to steal certain models of Kia and Hyundai vehicles using common items like a USB cable. As reported by law enforcement, the ease of theft and the allure of social media notoriety created a perfect storm for this crime wave, putting immense pressure on police departments and causing distress for vehicle owners.
This amplification of such conduct is occurring as TikTok solidifies its role as a major information distributor. According to a recent study, the platform's influence as a news source is growing exponentially. Data from the Pew Research Center reveals that nearly one in five Americans now regularly get their news from TikTok, a sharp increase from previous years. Among TikTok's own user base, the figure is even higher, with 43% reporting they use the app for news consumption.
This dual identity—as both an emerging news platform and a breeding ground for dangerous trends—creates a complex feedback loop. While many users turn to the platform for information, they are also exposed to a stream of content that can include glamorized criminal acts. The same algorithms that deliver news updates can propel a hazardous challenge into the mainstream, demonstrating the platform's powerful, and at times problematic, influence on modern culture and public safety. Experts note that for some, particularly younger users, the potential for online fame often outweighs the real-world consequences of their actions, a dynamic that social media trends have thrust into the national spotlight.
