Alleged former TikTok mod reveals why “Luigi Mangione” content gets censored

A self-described former TikTok moderator has shed light on why videos mentioning Luigi Mangione — a figure tied to violent extremism — face strict censorship on the platform. In a recent Reddit AMA, the user BurnerBoyBigBarry claimed Mangione was labeled a “Designated Hate Entity” by TikTok, triggering automatic removal of any content that features him without explicit condemnation. According to the moderator, even subtle nods to Mangione, like merchandise bearing his slogans, are flagged. “If you wear a shirt with his catchphrase on it, I have to take it down,” they wrote.

The policy leaves little room for nuance. Creators attempting sarcasm or irony risk having their videos pulled unless criticism of Mangione is the “point of the video,” the ex-moderator explained. This approach mirrors TikTok’s handling of other politically charged phrases, such as “free Palestine,” which users have accused the platform of suppressing in comments.

Mangione’s notoriety stems from his alleged role in the murder of UnitedHealthcare’s CEO, a case that drew attention from around the world. He pleaded not guilty to murder and terrorism charges in December, but his influence appears to have extended beyond the courtroom.

Last week, 24-year-old Riley English of Massachusetts was arrested near the U.S. Capitol carrying weapons and homemade firebombs. She told police she intended to assassinate newly confirmed Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, citing Mangione’s actions as inspiration.

English, who claims to be terminally ill, described feeling “on a mission” to replicate Mangione’s violence. Prosecutors called her plans “premeditated,” though her defense attorney argued her actions were a “cry for help,” noting her cooperation with authorities. The case highlights concerns about how online rhetoric can spill into real-world harm. This is exactly what TikTok’s moderation policies aim to curb.

Things nearly took a turn for the worse, despite platforms like TikTok censoring content involving Luigi Mangione. Now imagine a world where TikTok instead lets millions share and glorify violence. That’s undeniably scary! So for now, TikTok’s approach remains unwavering: any content linked to Mangione, absent outright rejection of his alleged crimes, faces removal.

A burner TikTok account that I created got slapped with a strike while I tested commenting “free Luigi” on a post. That’s how seriously the platform seems to be with the whole situation.

But TikTok users are also getting creative to avoid their politically charged posts getting censored. Recent trends like the “cute winter boots” and “Deny, Defend, Depose,” writing on currency notes revealed how users were spreading calls for violence and protests against the establishment.

As the line between prevention and suppression blurs, the debate over free speech and online safety will likely continue to intensify.

Featured image credits: Hawaii Dept. of Land and Natural Resources via AP