What is TikTok and why does age matter?
TikTok is a popular short-form video app with over 1 billion monthly active users worldwide. It allows users to create and share 15-60 second videos on any topic, often with music and special effects. TikTok has seen explosive growth since launching internationally in 2018, becoming one of the most downloaded apps in history according to Statista.
Due to its broad appeal to younger audiences, TikTok has implemented age restrictions. Users must be at least 13 years old to create an account per TikTok’s Terms of Service. The age requirement complies with the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act in the United States.
TikTok aims to provide age-appropriate experiences to foster a safe community. Content filters allow limiting videos with mature themes. Parental controls are also available through the Family Pairing feature.
Is there a way to change your birthday on TikTok?
Unlike some other social media platforms, the TikTok app does not allow users to edit their birthday after creating an account. Once your birthday is set during sign up, it cannot be modified.
TikTok has purposefully designed their platform this way to protect minors and prevent adult content from reaching underage users. As the Android Authority explains, “TikTok removed the ability to change your birthday to protect minors from harmful content.” https://www.androidauthority.com/change-age-on-tiktok-3154480/
By locking in a user’s birthday, TikTok can better monitor age-appropriate content and restrict adult material for users below 18. The birthday entered during sign up determines what content the user sees in their feed. Allowing users to modify their birthday would undermine this system.
Potential risks of using a fake age on TikTok
There are some significant dangers that come with using a fake age on TikTok. According to a recent Ofcom report, around a third of children aged 8-17 have used a false age of 18+ on social media. While it may seem harmless, this can lead to serious consequences.
One major risk is getting banned from TikTok for violating their terms of service. TikTok’s community guidelines explicitly prohibit providing false information, including fake birthdates. If caught, TikTok may delete the account entirely.
Additionally, using a fake older age can expose underage users to inappropriate content not suitable for their age. TikTok’s algorithm customizes the “For You” feed based on information provided in your profile. An older fake age tricks the algorithm into showing content meant for adult users. This opens children up to potentially disturbing or harmful videos and comments they are not ready to handle.
It’s important for parents to have conversations with their kids about using their real age on social platforms like TikTok. The risks outweigh any perceived benefits of appearing older online.
Setting a good example for younger users
Older users of social media like TikTok have an opportunity and responsibility to set a good example for younger users. According to psychologytoday.com, “Social media provides a powerful avenue for role modeling responsible behaviors for kids (Psychology Today).” Modeling responsible social media use, like using your real age, shows younger users the right way to engage on the platform. Being honest helps build trust and demonstrates the importance of online safety.
Using a fake age to circumvent TikTok’s age policies can jeopardize child safety and send the wrong message to more vulnerable users. As moneysmartathlete.com explains, “Athletes in the social media age have a responsibility to maintain a family friendly image and serve as role models for the next generation of aspiring athletes (Money Smart Athlete).” The same is true for any influential TikTok user with a young following. Promoting authenticity by using your real age is crucial for child protection and modeling responsible social media ethics.
How TikTok moderates underage users
TikTok has implemented automated systems to detect accounts that may belong to users under the minimum age limit of 13 years old. According to their transparency report, these automated systems look for indicators in user profiles such as a young-looking profile picture or interactions with other suspected underage accounts. If an account is flagged as potentially underage, TikTok may require age verification or remove the account (TikTok Transparency Report).
In the first quarter of 2021 alone, TikTok reported removing over 7 million accounts belonging to suspected underage users (Barrons). However, automated systems are not perfect. Legitimate users who appear young in their profile pictures may be incorrectly flagged. TikTok states that users can appeal the removal of their account if they believe they were banned incorrectly (TikTok Support).
Tips for appropriate TikTok use by age
Age-appropriate use of any social media platform is important for child safety. Here are some tips for TikTok use based on age:
For children under 13, parental monitoring and strict privacy settings are highly recommended. According to TikTok’s own Guardian’s Guide, the platform is intended for ages 13+, so use by younger children warrants caution.
For teens ages 13-15, TikTok recommends parents be involved and enable restricted mode to limit exposure to inappropriate content. Setting screen time limits, reviewing settings regularly, and maintaining open communication are key.
For older teens ages 16-17, monitoring is still advised. Discuss potential concerns like screen addiction, inappropriate messaging, oversharing, and impact on self-esteem and mental health.
For adults 18+, using TikTok appropriately comes down to being aware of your online footprint and privacy settings. You may still choose to limit screen time and be mindful of the content you create and consume.
The bottom line is appropriate TikTok use requires understanding your child’s maturity level, being involved in their experience, and emphasizing positive behaviors. With reasonable precautions, the platform can be fun and engaging for users of diverse ages.
Alternatives to violating TikTok’s age policy
For some young people eager to start using TikTok right away, the temptation to lie about their age can be strong. However, it’s best to avoid violating TikTok’s minimum age requirements. Here are some recommended alternatives:
Waiting patiently until you reach minimum age requirements. As hard as it is, the best option is to wait. Lying about your age, even though you may get away with it temporarily, could result in your account being banned if discovered. Signing up with your real age ensures you can use the platform safely and legitimately.
Seeking parental permission and supervision. If you explain your interest in TikTok to your parents, they may agree to supervise your usage until you are old enough to sign up on your own. This allows you to explore the platform, while ensuring you do so appropriately.
Trying other apps and sites designed for your age group. Rather than misrepresenting yourself on TikTok, look into apps and sites specifically created for your age demographic. There are lots of engaging options tailored for younger users that provide age-appropriate features.
Focusing on other creative hobbies and interests offline. Develop your talents by taking up hobbies like learning a musical instrument, joining a theater group, taking art lessons, playing sports, or exploring coding. There are so many ways to channel your creativity.
The importance of authenticity on social media
In an era of curated feeds and filtered photos, authenticity has become a rare commodity on social media. According to a 2021 survey by Marketing Charts (source), 92% of Gen Z respondents said people try to act like someone they’re not on social media. Despite this inauthenticity, 78% of teens value seeing real posts from real people.
Why does authenticity matter so much? Being your true self online allows for more meaningful connections and personal growth. When you share honestly about your life experiences, interests, and values, you attract people who appreciate the real you. Authentic self-expression enables supportive relationships to develop organically (source).
In contrast, portraying a false identity prevents genuine relationships from forming. People who interact with your facade don’t actually know or understand you. Maintaining this mirage also takes an emotional toll, as your online persona doesn’t align with your true self. Essentially, lack of authenticity isolates you.
While the temptation to enhance your image exists, social media users should focus on representing their true, multifaceted selves online. Authenticity nurtures meaningful connections and personal growth.
Appreciating platforms designed for your age
Social media platforms and apps are designed and created with certain target audiences in mind. Creators make thoughtful decisions about features and content policies based on providing an optimal experience for specific age groups. Rather than trying to appear older, it can be fulfilling to embrace platforms designed for your current stage in life.
As we get older, many of us look back fondly on activities and entertainment we enjoyed during our childhood and teenage years. There is joy to be found in appreciating things suited to your age, and accepting that you will naturally outgrow certain platforms over time. Each stage of life offers unique experiences to savor. Seeking age-appropriate content can help you stay focused on the present and find fulfillment.
Platforms designed for younger users aim to provide safe, positive communities with developmentally appropriate content. By using social media thoughtfully within the intended age range, you allow yourself to fully reap the benefits and personal growth these platforms can provide.
Conclusion
In summary, there is no legitimate way to change your age on TikTok. The platform requires users to enter their real date of birth when creating an account and has measures in place to detect and remove underage users. While some may be tempted to enter a fake older age, this violates TikTok’s terms of service and comes with risks like account bans, lack of age-appropriate content moderation, and setting a poor example for others.
The best approach is to be patient and use TikTok at the appropriate age per the app guidelines. For younger users, parental supervision can help ensure safe and positive experiences. Remember, authenticity and honesty are always the best policies, including on social media. Appreciate platforms designed for your age group and the content moderation protections in place. With some wisdom and care, we can all benefit from the TikTok experience.
