The French education ministry has reported social media platform TikTok to the Paris prosecutor’s office over potential links between excessive screen time on the app and mental health issues among young people, the ministry announced Thursday.

TikTok, owned by China’s ByteDance, has faced growing scrutiny in France over the impact of its content and algorithms on minors. In November, French judicial authorities opened an investigation into whether the platform’s recommendation algorithms could push young users toward self-harm or suicidal behavior. TikTok has consistently denied such allegations.

The referral to prosecutors reflects ongoing concerns by French officials about the effects of social media on youth wellbeing, highlighting the broader international debate over regulating digital platforms and protecting minors online.