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2 clusters · 7 sources · 3 days · First seen · Last updated

Romanian authorities warnings on TikTok ghost filter pranks

Overview

The Romanian Ministry of Internal Affairs issued an initial warning to parents regarding a viral TikTok trend called the ‘Ghost filter prank’. In these videos, adults use digital filters to project ghost images near children to capture their frightened reactions for social media engagement. Authorities noted that some pranks involve blocking doors to prevent children from escaping, which can cause significant emotional distress, anxiety, and trauma.

Following these reports, Romanian police further categorized these actions as emotional abuse rather than harmless pranks. Officials highlighted that children often experience pure panic because they cannot distinguish the digital filter from a real threat. Experts warned of long-term psychological consequences, such as sleep disorders and a breakdown of trust between children and parents. Authorities urged users to report content featuring minors being frightened or humiliated directly through TikTok.

Entities

TikTok · Romanian Ministry of Internal Affairs · Romania · Romanian Police

Timeline

  1. [INTERNATIONAL] 2 sources
    Romanian Police warn of TikTok Ghost Prank trend

    Romanian Police are warning parents against the TikTok “Ghost Prank” trend, labeling the exploitation of children's fear for views as emotional abuse that can cause lasting psychological harm.

  2. [CULTURE] 5 sources
    Romanian authorities warn against TikTok ghost filter pranks on children

    The Romanian Ministry of Internal Affairs has warned parents against using TikTok ghost filters to scare children for social media views, citing risks of real emotional trauma.

Sources

adevarul.ro · cotidianul.ro · observatorulph.ro · observnews.ro · realitatea.net · stirilekanald.ro · stiripesurse.ro