TikTok algorithms linked to 'ndrangheta cultural drift in Calabria

A study published in the journal ‘Crime Media Culture’ warns that TikTok’s algorithms may inadvertently facilitate a ‘mafia cultural drift’ by leading users from regional pride to organized crime glorification.

Anna Sergi, a professor at the University of Bologna, conducted research analyzing over 1,000 videos over three months. The study highlights how the platform’s ‘rabbit hole’ mechanism—sequences of interconnected content—can transition users from moderate celebrations of Calabrian culture, such as food and landscapes, to radical content that justifies the ‘ndrangheta criminal organization.

The research identifies four categories of content: ‘Admirers’ who celebrate local traditions; ‘Militants’ who seek to protect heritage from external interference; ‘Supporters’ who link identity to fugitives or prisoners; and ‘Apologists’ who openly justify criminal codes. The study notes that traditional values like honor and family loyalty can be manipulated and distorted to protect criminal activities and promote complicity within the digital environment.