Transport for London (TfL) faced backlash when a Facebook advertisement featuring a black teenage boy verbally harassing a white girl was banned by the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA). The ASA criticized the ad for perpetuating negative stereotypes about black men as aggressors, emphasizing that this portrayal is harmful and irresponsible. The decision came after a complaint was lodged with the ASA, which found the ad to be particularly damaging in its implications.

The controversial ad was part of a broader campaign aimed at raising awareness about intervening in cases of sexual harassment and hate crime on London’s public transport. TfL explained that the ad was one of three snippets from a two-minute film titled "Would you know how to act like a friend?" which aimed to promote safety and allyship in instances of public harassment. While the other two ads depicted white men committing similar acts of hate against both a black woman and another white man, it was the first ad that drew significant attention and criticism for its portrayal of race.

TfL defended the campaign by stating that the overall film included a diverse cast and aimed to address important social issues. However, the ASA's ruling highlights the delicate balance between raising awareness and avoiding the reinforcement of detrimental stereotypes, forcing TfL to reconsider its advertising strategies in an effort to convey messages without perpetuating bias.