The TikTok Blackout Challenge: How to Protect Children

The TikTok Blackout Challenge, also known as the "choking game" or "pass-out challenge," is a highly dangerous trend that involves cutting off oxygen to the brain to induce a brief, euphoric sensation. Participants often choke themselves or have someone else apply pressure to their necks. While this might sound shocking, it's precisely this sense of danger and peer validation that makes such challenges appealing to curious children and teens.

The challenge is presented in a way that downplays the risks, showing participants laughing or walking away unscathed. What they don't show are the serious risks—like brain damage or even death—that can result from asphyxiation.

Many parents may not be aware of the choking game. We aim to raise awareness among caretakers, healthcare providers, and educators so that they can recognize the warning signs.

How and When Did the TikTok Blackout Challenge Start?

The "choking game" is not new, but the Blackout Challenge has gained renewed attention on TikTok in recent years. TikTok's algorithm, designed to promote engaging and trending content, has helped such dangerous challenges spread quickly. When users interact with these types of videos, they're often shown even more similar content, creating a cycle that amplifies the trend.

Reports of the Blackout Challenge resurfaced in 2021 and continue to appear sporadically, targeting impressionable young users. The challenge's presence on social media platforms makes it especially hard to trace and regulate, leaving many parents unaware of its existence until a tragedy occurs.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has identified warning signs that could indicate a child is attempting this challenge, including:

Bloodshot eyes
Marks or bruises on the neck
Severe headaches
Feeling confused or disoriented after being alone

Known Incidents

The Blackout challenge is not a new issue. Between 1995 and 2008, the CDC attributed 82 deaths to the choking game. Recent data suggests at least 20 more fatalities in the years since. These sobering statistics underscore the need for awareness and preventive measures to keep children safe.

These incidents highlight just how dangerous the trend can be:

2021, Palermo, Italy: A young girl lost her life after attempting the Blackout Challenge, which she reportedly discovered on TikTok. She used a belt to choke herself and was found unconscious by her family. This tragic event prompted Italian authorities to take action against TikTok, urging the platform to improve user safety. (source Newsweek)

2021, Colorado, USA: A 12-year-old boy from Colorado was found unconscious in his bedroom after attempting the challenge alone. His family later confirmed he had been influenced by what he saw online. (source: People.com)

2022, Legal Actions: Families of victims filed lawsuits against TikTok, accusing the platform of failing to prevent dangerous content from reaching young users.

After several years of relative silence, the "blackout challenge" once again made headlines in April 2024 when two students in South Orange, New Jersey, fainted while attempting the game. One of the students was taken to the hospital due to breathing difficulties after regaining consciousness, while the other received medical attention from school staff.

How to Protect Your Children

The tragic stories associated with the Blackout Challenge serve as a reminder of the long-lasting consequences that online trends can have. Protecting your child from harmful online challenges isn't always easy, but you can make a difference through open communication, education, and active involvement. Here are some ways you can help:

Talk Openly About Internet Safety. Create an environment where your child feels safe talking about what they see online. Ask questions like, "Have you heard about any challenges on TikTok?" or "What do your friends think about online trends?" Make it clear they won't be judged or punished for sharing.
Educate About the Risks. Explain in simple terms why challenges like the Blackout Challenge are dangerous. Use examples to describe how a lack of oxygen can lead to serious harm, like brain damage or even death.
Monitor Their Online Activity. Make sure their TikTok profile is set to private and restrict who can send them messages or view their posts. Bitdefender Parental Control helps you keep track of their TikTok (and other apps) usage and how much time they spend on them. It helps you block suspicious websites and links, limit downloads, and alert you to unusual behavior. You can set internet time limits and get insights into your child's online activities. It's included in all Bitdefender Family Plans; you only have to download it on your child's devices and use it.
Set Clear Boundaries. Establish rules about social media use. For example, make it a family rule to avoid participating in any challenge unless you've discussed it together. This helps teach them to think critically about what they see online.
Report Dangerous Content. If you see videos promoting harmful challenges, report them immediately to the platform. Teach your child how to do the same. Reporting dangerous content helps prevent others from seeing it and reduces the spread of harmful trends.
Seek Professional Help if Needed. If you suspect your child has tried or is considering trying a harmful challenge, don't hesitate to reach out to a pediatrician, counselor, or psychologist. They can provide support and resources tailored to your child's needs.

FAQs

What is the TikTok Blackout Challenge, and why is it dangerous?

The TikTok Blackout Challenge, also known as the "choking game" or "pass-out challenge," is a viral trend where participants intentionally restrict oxygen to their brains to experience a brief euphoric feeling. This challenge is dangerous because it can cause brain damage, unconsciousness, and even death. Videos promoting the challenge often downplay these risks, making it even more harmful for young and impressionable viewers.

How can parents recognize if their child is participating in the Blackout Challenge?

Parents should watch for signs such as bloodshot eyes, bruises or marks on the neck, frequent severe headaches, or confusion after spending time alone. These could indicate attempts at the challenge. Staying involved in your child's digital life and talking openly about online trends can also help you detect and address such risky behaviors early.

How can I protect my child from dangerous TikTok challenges like the Blackout Challenge?

To protect your child, talk openly about the risks of online challenges, use age-appropriate language to explain the dangers, and set clear rules about social media use. Regularly monitor their online activity and utilize parental control tools to restrict access to harmful content. Encourage critical thinking and report dangerous videos to the platform. If you suspect your child has tried the challenge, seek professional support immediately.