This article provides step-by-step instructions for reactivating a TikTok account after voluntarily deactivating it. Deactivating an account rather than deleting it allows the user to take a break from TikTok while retaining the option to reactivate the same account later. There are several reasons why someone may want to deactivate their TikTok account temporarily, such as taking a social media break, avoiding distractions during exam time, or controlling screen addiction. This guide will explain how to properly deactivate a TikTok account, the rules around reactivation, and the process for successfully restoring access to a deactivated TikTok account.
When and Why TikTok Accounts Get Deactivated
There are a few common reasons someone may have chosen to deactivate their TikTok account originally:
Taking a break – Some users decide to temporarily deactivate their account to take a break from the app and social media for a while. This allows them to step away without losing their account entirely.
Seeking more privacy – Deactivating an account makes the user’s profile and videos private and inaccessible to others. This can be desirable for those looking for more privacy and wanting to limit their digital footprint.
Cyberbullying concerns – Unfortunately, cyberbullying is common on social platforms like TikTok. Victims sometimes deactivate their account to escape harassment.
Parental or relationship pressures – Young users may be pressured by parents to deactivate TikTok due to concerns over screentime or content. Those in relationships may deactivate at a partner’s request.
Losing interest – Over time, some users simply lose interest in using the app as frequently and decide to take a break by deactivating. Their interest may be rekindled later.
Temporary ban – In some cases, TikTok may temporarily deactivate an account due to violations of community guidelines. The user can reactivate after the ban expires.
As this illustrates, there are diverse reasons someone may have chosen to deactivate their TikTok account originally before looking to reactivate it again. The motivation is often taking a temporary break from the platform rather than leaving permanently.
How Deactivating an Account is Different from Deleting
Deactivating your TikTok account is different from fully deleting it. When you deactivate your TikTok account, it is temporarily disabled but not permanently erased. Your profile, videos, likes, followers, and drafts will all be saved and await your return once you reactivate your account.
In contrast, deleting your TikTok account is permanent. All of your content and data will be removed from TikTok’s servers and cannot be restored if you decide to return later. Your username also becomes available for anyone else to claim once your account is deleted.
The key difference is that deactivation puts your account on hold, while deletion erases it forever. Deactivated accounts can easily be restored by logging back in, but deleted accounts are gone for good. So deactivate if you just need a temporary break, but delete if you are leaving TikTok permanently.
Reactivation Rules and Limitations
TikTok has certain rules and limits when it comes to reactivating deactivated accounts:
– Accounts can only be reactivated within 30 days of deactivation. After 30 days, the account cannot be recovered (source: https://support.tiktok.com/en/safety-hc/account-and-user-safety/inactive-account-policy).
– If you deactivated your account by accident, you can reactive it immediately by logging back in (source: https://www.tiktok.com/@islaexplores/video/7271585696639487264).
– Accounts that were banned for severe policy violations cannot be reactivated (source: https://support.tiktok.com/en/safety-hc/account-and-user-safety/content-violations-and-bans).
– You can only reactivate an account from the device where it was originally deactivated. Reactivating on a new device is not possible (source: https://www.tiktok.com/@islaexplores/video/7271585696639487264).
Steps to Reactivate TikTok Account
Reactivating a deactivated TikTok account is a straightforward process that can be done either through the TikTok app or website. Here are the step-by-step instructions:
Through the TikTok app:
- Download and open the latest version of the TikTok app on your device.
- Tap on “Log in” on the bottom right.
- Enter your username and password that was associated with your deactivated account.
- Tap on “Log in” again.
- You will see a prompt asking if you want to reactivate your account. Tap on “Reactivate”.
- Your TikTok account should now be reactivated and you will be logged in.
Through the TikTok website:
- Go to https://www.tiktok.com/login on a desktop browser.
- Enter your username and password that was associated with your deactivated account.
- Click on “Log in”.
- You will see a prompt asking if you want to reactivate your account. Click on “Reactivate”.
- Your TikTok account should now be reactivated and you will be logged in.
As long as you use the same login credentials as before deactivating, you should be able to seamlessly reactivate and access your old TikTok account. The process is quick and easy whether on mobile or desktop.
What Happens When You Reactivate
When you reactivate your TikTok account after deactivating it, the account is restored to the state it was in before deactivation. This means:
- Your profile, videos, likes, comments, and followers will all still be there.
- You’ll retain the same username, handle, and profile picture.
- Your followers and who you follow will remain unchanged.
- Your account statistics like views, shares, hearts, etc. will be unaffected.
- Any draft videos and edits you didn’t post will still be accessible in your drafts.
Essentially, it will be as if your account was never deactivated in the first place. TikTok preserves all your account details during the 30 day reactivation window. The only difference is your account will not show up in searches or be recommended to others while deactivated.
Once reactivated, your account will become fully functional again as normal. You can continue posting videos, commenting, messaging, and participating in all TikTok features seamlessly.
Regaining Access with a Lost Password
If you have lost your TikTok password and can no longer access your deactivated account, you can reset your password to regain access. Here are the steps:
1. Open the TikTok app and tap “Log In” at the bottom of the screen.
2. Tap “Forgot password?” below the password field.
3. Enter your email address or username associated with your account and tap “Send Code.”
4. Check your email inbox for a 6-digit verification code from TikTok and enter it on the app.
5. Create a new password and confirm it.
Once you reset your password, you will be able to log back into your deactivated TikTok account. Just be sure to reactivate it within 30 days, or the account will be permanently deleted.
For more details, refer to TikTok’s instructions on resetting your password: https://support.tiktok.com/en/log-in-troubleshoot/log-in/reset-password
Reactivating After Being Banned
If your TikTok account was banned due to violating TikTok’s community guidelines or terms of service, unfortunately you will not be able to reactivate it. TikTok’s bans are permanent when issued for violations like sharing inappropriate or dangerous content, spamming, artificially inflating engagement, or harassing other users.
According to TikTok’s support site, “If your account was permanently banned, you will not be able to reactivate it.” Banned accounts cannot be reinstated. TikTok’s ban decisions are final and cannot be appealed or overturned.
Some common reasons accounts get permanently banned include:
- Sharing sexually explicit or pornographic content
- Threats, harassment, or bullying
- Hate speech or dangerous ideology
- Impersonating others
- Underage usage violations
If you feel your account was banned incorrectly, you can submit an appeal through the app. However, TikTok rarely overturns permanent bans. Your only option may be to create a new account and be more careful about following the rules going forward.
Sources:
https://support.tiktok.com/en/safety-hc/account-and-user-safety/account-safety
https://megadigital.ai/en/blog/unbanned-tiktok-account/
Alternative Social Media Platforms
If you are unable to reactivate your TikTok account, there are many other excellent short-form video platforms you can use instead. Here are some top alternatives to consider:
Snapchat – Like TikTok, Snapchat allows you to create short videos to share with friends or a wider audience. It also has fun AR filters and effects.
Instagram Reels – Instagram’s Reels feature offers TikTok-style short videos that you can share to your followers or explore content. Reels integrates seamlessly with Instagram’s ecosystem.
YouTube Shorts – Short-form vertical videos up to 60 seconds long, similar to TikTok. YouTube Shorts has a massive built-in audience.
Triller – A rival app with advanced editing and effects capabilities ideal for musicians and creators.
Kwai – Popular short video app in Asia that is expanding globally, with fun filters and stickers.
There are many other excellent short video apps to explore beyond TikTok. Look for ones that match your interests and needs.
When to Contact TikTok Support
In most cases, you should be able to reactivate your TikTok account on your own by following the steps outlined above. However, there are some situations where you may need to reach out to TikTok’s support team for additional help:
If you can’t reset your password because you don’t have access to the email or phone number on your TikTok account, you’ll need to contact TikTok support to regain access to your account. You can reach out to them through their contact page.
If your account was banned for violating TikTok’s community guidelines, you’ll need to appeal the ban by contacting TikTok support. Be sure to be polite and explain the situation fully in your appeal. TikTok support can review your case and potentially lift the ban.
If you are having technical issues reactivating your account through the app or website, it’s best to contact TikTok support directly so they can troubleshoot and resolve the problem.
You can reach out to TikTok’s support team by submitting a request through their contact page. Be sure to include your username and any other relevant details. You can also try contacting them through their social media channels like Twitter or Facebook.
