Data from a Freedom of Information request by JF Law has revealed a massive explosion in local offences linked to the app, as Greater Manchester Police recorded an astonishing 3,643 incidents between 2023 and 2025.
TikTok use deemed a relevant factor in many crimes, even in rapes
While the popular video-sharing platform is mentioned in each crime report, it does not necessarily mean the app caused the offences – rather that it was relevant to the context.
The scale of the problem is staggering. Offences in Greater Manchester spiralled from 1,001 in 2023 to 1,551 by 2025, with alarming rises in deeply serious incidents targeting vulnerable victims.
Disturbingly, severe sexual offences are a rapidly growing crisis. Across the region, 32 rapes were linked to the app over three years, jumping drastically from three in 2023 to 19 the following year.
Alongside rapes, other sexual offences surged from 24 cases in 2023 to 108 by 2025. This equates to a shocking total of 185 other sexual crimes recorded across the timeframe.
Even children under ten were targeted
The victim demographics paint a troubling picture for parents. Primary-aged children under ten were targeted in three cases, while those aged between 10 and 17 suffered 88 documented offences.
Oldham emerged as the epicentre for these digital-age crimes in Greater Manchester, recording a staggering 419 total incidents. Bolton was the second highest area with 375 offences over the period.
Tameside followed closely with 338 total cases, climbing from 93 to 137 by 2025. Rochdale and Salford both faced significant volumes, each accumulating over 330 total incidents across the three years.
The City of Manchester North saw 305 total crimes, growing from 87 to 126. Bury recorded 263 cases, while City of Manchester South dealt with 257 incidents, reaching 104 in 2025.
The City of Manchester Central faced 241 crimes. Stockport accumulated 237 offences, Trafford handled 171 incidents, and even Manchester Airport recorded three cases linked to the platform by 2025.
Alongside sexual offences, other concerning categories soared. Public order offences accumulated 176 cases, miscellaneous crimes against society reached 168 incidents, and possession of weapons was noted in six reports.
Greater Manchester is not the only area affected
The issue also extends significantly into neighbouring regions. West Yorkshire Police dealt with an astonishing 3,430 total crimes, surging aggressively from 874 incidents in 2023 to 1,458 last year.
In West Yorkshire, teenagers aged 10 to 17 were heavily victimised, suffering 811 total offences. Shockingly, children under ten were victims in 43 cases, displaying a clear pattern of risk.
Derbyshire Constabulary uncovered 484 total incidents across their patch, escalating from 128 to 204. Stalking and harassment dominated their statistics, accumulating 357 cases over the three years.
Lancashire Constabulary recorded 164 total offences. Their data also highlighted a worsening trend, rising from 35 incidents in 2023 to 84 by 2025, with multiple victims under the age of 18.
Education on safekeeing is important
A Greater Manchester Police spokesperson said they are continuing to educate parents, carers, and children on how to keep safe online as technology advances and access to internet-enabled devices grows.
They added that anybody who thinks they may have been a victim of crime through social media can contact Greater Manchester Police at any time to report their concerns.
The force promised to provide support, conduct thorough investigations, and take firm action against offenders, assuring victims that allegations will be taken seriously and treated with dignity and respect.
Victims may seek help from specialised lawyers
Ellie Lamey, a Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) specialist at JF Law said:
The sheer volume of these cases is a stark warning to parents and authorities alike
We are seeing everyday platforms being weaponised by predators to target our youngest and most vulnerable, turning what should be a harmless online space into a digital hunting ground.
The trauma inflicted by cyber-stalking, harassment, and online-facilitated abuse has profound, real-world consequences that can completely shatter a family’s sense of security.
It is crucial that victims know there are concrete legal avenues available to fight back. Nobody should have to navigate this nightmare in silence, and we are committed to helping survivors secure the protection, justice, and support they need to move forward.
JF Law expert legal support and advice to those affected by online harassment, abuse, and related crimes. You can book a free consultation or call their 24-hour helpline by visiting their website.
Friends of Bylines Network
There has never been a greater need for grassroots journalism that investigates the stories that really matter, holds power to account and champions the voices of everyday citizens. We are proudly powered by volunteers but what we do isn’t free.
STAND WITH US for independent, citizen-led journalism that makes democracy stronger, and you will even get some exclusive benefits.
