Trends come and go on the streets of social media, and no platform flows with the trends as much as TikTok. These trends can be good, causing users to take part in fun and engaging challenges, but other times, they can have some terrible consequences.
Many recent trends on the platform didn’t have the best results. From the ice bucket challenge which hospitalized a few people, to the milk crate challenge which also hospitalized a few people. Now, there’s a new one.
In recent years, the date April 24th has become associated with a deeply disturbing trend on TikTok and other social media platforms.
In this article, we’ll talk about the connotations of the date April 24th, its origins, and its impact.
What Happens on April 24th?
April Fools Day is the most popular unofficial holiday in the month, but now another date joins the race. However, its connotations are a lot less easygoing.
According to some nameless sources, April 24th is National Rape Day, a fictitious holiday that doesn’t sound appealing. The false and harmful notion of “National Rape Day” has circulated online, causing widespread fear and concern.
The Origin of the Harmful Trend
The exact origins of this disturbing trend remain unclear, but it is believed to have emerged in 2021. A TikTok video allegedly encouraged individuals to commit acts of sexual assault on April 24th, falsely claiming it to be a “legal” day for such crimes. The video sparked outrage and fear among users, leading to a rapid spread of the harmful message.
The Impact of the Trend
The “National Rape Day” hoax has had a profound negative impact on online communities. It has created a climate of fear and anxiety, particularly among women and girls. The trend has also highlighted the potential dangers of misinformation spreading rapidly on social media platforms.
However, It doesn’t seem like people are following the trend. April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, after all. A month that is set aside for teaching, preventing, and helping people heal from sexual assault.
TikTok’s Response and Safety Measures
TikTok has condemned the harmful trend and has taken steps to remove related content from its platform. The platform has also emphasized the importance of user safety and encouraged users to report any suspicious or harmful content.
Protecting Yourself Online
While TikTok has taken steps to address the issue, it’s essential to remain vigilant and take precautions to protect yourself online. Here are some tips:
- Be aware of the dangers: Understand the potential risks of social media and be cautious about the information you consume.
- Verify your information: Before sharing or believing any alarming content, verify its authenticity through credible sources.
- Report harmful content: If you encounter content related to the “National Rape Day” hoax, report it to TikTok and other relevant authorities.
- Prioritize safety: Trust your instincts and prioritize your safety both online and offline.
It’s crucial to remember that “National Rape Day” is a false and harmful concept. However, sexual assault is a serious crime that occurs year-round. By spreading awareness and taking appropriate precautions, we can help combat this disturbing trend.
