Dangerous TikTok "challenges" are nothing new.  Warnings have been issued for several years about strange challenges that go viral on TikTok and somehow become popular despite the obvious danger.

"Hit your face with a sledgehammer 5 times" and "inject yourself with silicone roofing caulk" were two recent and particularly deadly challenges that have had ByteDance Ltd - owner of TikTok - playing defense in public relations.  The company has faced lawsuits because of its apparent tendency to promote the videos most harmful to its users.

"Smuggle Drugs Into Russia" may be the latest example of this trend.  It was popularized by a female basketball player last year and has every indication of going viral.  CNN, ABC, and MSNBC broadcast a Public Service Announcement (PSA) this week to advise against this particular challenge, saying it results in a "troublingly high incidence of patriotism."

Portions of the PSA text were provided to TPC News:

Lest there be any confusion, the "Smuggle Droogs Out of Russia" TikTok challenge is still in effect without any public warnings.