TikTok is a short-form video sharing app that allows users to create and share 15-60 second videos. It was launched in 2016 by ByteDance, a Beijing-based internet technology company. Since then, TikTok has grown tremendously in popularity. According to TikTok user statistics, it currently has over 1 billion monthly active users globally, making it one of the most popular social media platforms in the world.
In the United States alone, TikTok has over 150 million monthly active users as of 2024. Its popularity stems from its fun, entertaining, and creative short videos that allow users to express themselves through singing, dancing, comedy, and more. The app’s powerful algorithm is able to quickly determine user interests and preferences to serve up an endless stream of personalized content. This keeps users engaged and coming back.
With its huge user base of Gen Zers and Millennials, TikTok has also become a powerful platform for trends, memes, challenges and viral content. Brands and marketers have taken notice, flocking to the platform to reach this valuable demographic.
Account Security
Keeping your account secure on social media platforms like TikTok is crucial. One of the most important aspects of account security is using a strong password. According to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), passwords should be long, random, and unique (Source). Simple or common passwords are easier for hackers to guess. CISA recommends using a password manager to generate and store complex passwords.
Some tips for creating strong passwords include:
– Avoid using personal information like your name, birthday, username, or email address (Source)
– Use a longer password with 12 characters or more
– Include a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols
– Don’t use common words or phrases
– Don’t reuse passwords across multiple accounts
Taking the time to create and use strong, unique passwords is one of the best ways to secure your TikTok account and prevent unauthorized access. Password security should be a priority for all social media users concerned about their privacy and data.
Password Recovery
If you’ve forgotten your password for TikTok, you can easily reset it through the app. Here are the steps to reset your password on TikTok:
1. Open the TikTok app and tap on ‘Log In’ on the bottom right.
2. On the login screen, tap on ‘Forgot password?’. This will open the password reset screen.
3. Enter the email address or phone number associated with your account and tap on ‘Send Code’. TikTok will send you a 6-digit verification code.
4. Enter the 6-digit code sent to you and then create a new password. Make sure your new password is strong and unique.
Once you enter the verification code and new password, your password will be reset and you’ll be logged back into your account. If you don’t have access to the email or phone number on your account, you can submit an account recovery request to TikTok through this form.
Two-Factor Authentication
Two-factor authentication (2FA) is an extra layer of security for your TikTok account that requires you to enter both your password and a verification code when logging in. Enabling 2FA helps protect your account in case your password is compromised. As recommended by TikTok, using 2FA is one of the best ways to keep your TikTok account secure.
With 2FA enabled, even if someone obtains your TikTok password, they still cannot access your account without also having access to your phone or authentication app that generates the verification code. This makes it much harder for hackers to break into your account. TikTok supports using both text messages and third-party authentication apps like Google Authenticator to generate 2FA codes.
Overall, two-factor authentication dramatically improves account security by requiring two forms of identity verification. Enabling 2FA is quick and easy in the TikTok app settings, and provides peace of mind that your account has an extra layer of protection.
Privacy Settings
TikTok allows users to control the privacy settings for their account. This is important for account security, as it allows you to limit who can see your videos, messages, likes, followers list and more.
By default, TikTok accounts for users under 16 are set to private. This means only approved followers can view your content (Teen privacy and safety settings). Users over 16 have public accounts by default, but can easily change to a private account via the app settings.
To make your TikTok account private, go to your profile and tap the three dots in the top right corner. Select “Privacy and safety” and toggle on “Private account” (Choosing between a private or public account). This will limit your videos, likes, followers list and any other sensitive account info to only people you approve.
You can also customize privacy settings for features like comments, duets, stitches, downloads and more. Go to “Privacy and safety” settings to manage each option.
Reporting Security Issues
If your TikTok account gets hacked or compromised, it’s important to report it to TikTok right away. Here’s how to do it:
Go to the TikTok Help Center and click on “My Account Has Been Hacked.” This will take you through the steps to report your account being hacked or compromised.
You’ll need to provide details like your username, email, phone number, and a description of the issue. TikTok will review your report and work to secure your account.
Once you submit the report, you’ll get an auto-reply with a ticket number. Write this down so you can follow up if needed. TikTok aims to respond to hacking reports within 1-3 business days.
If someone has changed your password, posted inappropriate content, or violated community guidelines with your account, be sure to explain that in your report. Provide as many details as possible to help TikTok investigate.
You may also want to report the issue to TikTok’s security team if there’s a broader vulnerability being exploited.
Acting quickly to report hacking or compromise is key to regaining control of your account. TikTok takes security issues seriously and will work with you to address them.
Securing Personal Information
When using TikTok, it’s important to be careful about sharing personal information to protect your privacy and security. Here are some best practices:
Avoid sharing sensitive information like your address, phone number, or any financial information in your videos, profile, or messages. This information could potentially be accessed and misused by bad actors (TikTok Community Guidelines – Privacy and Security).
Be cautious about revealing details that could allow someone to identify or locate you, like your school, workplace, or city you live in. Keep in mind that small clues can be pieced together (TikTok – Privacy and Security).
Customize your privacy settings by toggling options like “Suggest your account to others” and limiting your audience. Restricting your profile and videos to private limits visibility.
Be wary of phishing attempts and scams asking for personal information over TikTok. Use good judgement before sharing anything sensitive.
Monitor your privacy settings periodically and when new features roll out to ensure your preferences are saved. Stay updated on TikTok’s privacy policy and how your information can be used.
Avoiding Scams
Scams and phishing attempts are unfortunately common on TikTok and social media in general. Scammers may try to trick you into sharing personal information like your password or credit card details through fake offers, giveaways, or messages that appear to be from TikTok itself. According to TikTok’s safety guidelines, it’s important to be wary of unsolicited messages asking for sensitive information or payment (1).
Some common scams to watch out for include fake verification badges, romance scams, offers of free followers/likes in exchange for your login details, and messages claiming your account is at risk unless you provide payment. Scam apps may also appear promoted by fake influencer accounts (2). Remember that TikTok will never message you out of the blue asking for your password, social security number, or other sensitive information.
To avoid falling victim to scams, be cautious of unsolicited messages even if they appear to come from TikTok. Avoid clicking suspicious links or downloading software from untrusted sources. Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication. Report phishing attempts or spam messages using TikTok’s reporting tools. Being vigilant about scams can help keep your account secure.
Parental Controls
TikTok has parental control features that allow parents to manage their child’s account security and restrict certain types of content. Parents can enable the Family Pairing feature, which links their TikTok account to their child’s account.
With Family Pairing, parents can restrict the content shown in their child’s feed by enabling Restricted Mode. This limits the appearance of potentially inappropriate content. Parents can also manage screen time by setting daily limits on how long their child can spend on TikTok.
Additionally, Family Pairing gives parents visibility into their child’s account. Parents can see their child’s liked videos, who they follow, and any reported content. Parents can unfollow accounts on their child’s behalf or completely block certain accounts from being visible. They also get notifications when their child reports an account or video.
Enabling Family Pairing and utilizing its parental control features allows parents to more closely manage their child’s TikTok experience. It provides tools to restrict mature content and account interactions as an added layer of protection and oversight on the app. To enable Family Pairing, parents need to download the TikTok app and follow the in-app linking process. Both the parent’s and child’s devices must have Family Pairing enabled.
Sources:
https://support.tiktok.com/en/safety-hc/account-and-user-safety/user-safety
https://www.bark.us/tech-guide/app-management-tiktok/
Conclusion
In summary, keeping your TikTok account secure should be a priority for all users. Start by setting a strong password that is unique to TikTok and enabling two-factor authentication for additional protection. Regularly review your privacy settings and report any suspicious activity immediately. Avoid oversharing personal details online or falling victim to scams. Enable parental controls if needed. Stay vigilant and think critically about what you see on TikTok.
Most importantly, take advantage of all the tools TikTok provides to lock down your account. Enable the security features specifically designed to prevent unauthorized access. And if you ever lose access to your account, follow the proper password recovery steps. By being proactive about TikTok security, you can enjoy the platform while minimizing risks.
