TikTok has rapidly grown into one of the most popular social media platforms in the world. As of January 2023, TikTok had over 1.2 billion monthly active users globally (Source). The app allows users to create and share short videos, often set to music, and its algorithmically driven “For You” feed has proven extremely effective at keeping users engaged.
One common question from users is why they are unable to add a second TikTok account to the same mobile device. While other platforms like Instagram allow multiple accounts, TikTok restricts users to only having one account per device. There are several reasons TikTok has implemented this single account policy.
TikTok’s One Account Per Device Policy
TikTok only allows users to have one account per device (1). This means you cannot create or switch between multiple accounts on the same phone or tablet. Adding a second account goes directly against TikTok’s policy of one account per device.
There are several reasons TikTok enforces this single account rule. First, it helps prevent spam and abuse by limiting how many accounts a single user can manage (2). It also aids in maintaining the integrity of each user’s identity and activity on the platform. With just one account per device, TikTok can better track user behaviors and serve relevant content through its For You Page algorithm (3).
Additionally, having multiple accounts can interfere with TikTok monetization initiatives and rewards programs. Features like TikTok LIVE gifts and creator funds are intended for individual users, not multiple accounts belonging to the same person. So the one account policy helps preserve the fairness of these initiatives (4).
Overall, TikTok’s rule of only allowing one account per device aims to create a better experience for genuine users while limiting shady behavior from spam accounts and inauthentic activity.
Limiting Under Age Users
TikTok requires users to be 13 or older to create an account, as stated in their terms of service. This age limit aims to protect younger children who may not be able to make informed decisions about online sharing.
Allowing users to create multiple accounts from a single device makes it easier for underage users to bypass the 13+ age limit. With a single account per device policy, TikTok can better verify users and enforce its minimum age requirements. Preventing second accounts reduces the likelihood of children under 13 signing up without parental approval.
Maintaining User Identity
TikTok wants each account to represent a real, unique user and not allow duplicate or fake accounts (1). Part of their community guidelines is focused on authenticity and maintaining unique user identities. Having multiple accounts for a single user goes against this goal, making it harder for TikTok to ensure each account is tied to a real person.
Second or duplicate accounts also allow people to more easily impersonate others or create inauthentic profiles. TikTok limits users to a single account per device to maintain accountability and prevent issues like harassment, scams, misinformation, and bots (2). Requiring unique identities makes each user more responsible for their activity.
Preventing Spam and Abuse
Spammers often use multiple accounts to spread spam and abuse on platforms like TikTok. By creating multiple accounts, they can bypass bans and continue posting unwanted content. TikTok tries to limit this spam and abuse by restricting users to only one account per device.
According to TikTok’s Community Guidelines (https://www.tiktok.com/community-guidelines?lang=en), accounts that “artificially amplify or suppress information” or “engage in behaviors intended to artificially grow follower accounts” are not allowed and may be removed. Having multiple accounts per person goes against this policy by allowing users to artificially inflate their presence and distribute spam more easily.
TikTok’s one account per device rule helps crack down on “inauthentic activity” from spammers trying to manipulate the platform. This promotes an improved experience for genuine users and limits the reach of accounts using deception to spread spam or misinformation.
Impact on the For You Page
The For You page (FYP) is the main feed that users see when they open TikTok. It is powered by TikTok’s recommendation algorithm, which customizes the feed to show videos that each individual user is most likely to enjoy and engage with.
According to TikTok, the FYP algorithm works by “recommending content by analyzing a wide range of factors – starting from interests you express as a new user, to activities on the app, to the content you create and interact with, to what people around you are watching.” [1]
This highly personalized FYP is one of the main reasons for TikTok’s popularity and addictiveness. However, having multiple accounts on one device can interfere with the algorithm’s ability to fine tune recommendations. The algorithm may become confused by activity on the second account and start showing unrelated or inappropriate content.
TikTok seeks to provide the optimal, tailored experience to each individual user. Allowing second accounts on the same device would degrade the purity of the FYP algorithm and affect the overall user experience that TikTok strives for.
Monetization and Rewards
TikTok has a rewards program that allows popular creators to earn money based on the number of unique viewers they attract. As TikTok’s Creator Marketplace guidelines explain, creators can only monetize one TikTok account at a time. Having multiple accounts under the same identity would allow someone to artificially inflate their unique user count and earnings through the rewards program.
Since TikTok calculates payments based on the number of individual users watching a creator’s content, having multiple accounts for the same person goes against the terms of service. It could allow dishonest creators to game the system and deprive others of potential earnings. TikTok aims to maintain fairness in its monetization model by limiting users to one account.
Copyright and Data Protection
One of the main reasons TikTok limits users to a single account is to enforce its copyright and community guidelines policies. As per TikTok’s copyright policy, the platform does not permit users to post any content that violates someone else’s intellectual property rights, including copyright and trademarks (source). If a video contains copyrighted music, images, or other material without proper licensing, it can lead to copyright strikes and account suspensions.
Some users try to open additional accounts as a workaround after receiving copyright strikes on their main account. By starting fresh, they hope to post copyright-infringing content again without consequences. TikTok’s one account rule helps shut down this abuse. It allows them to trace suspended accounts back to the same user and device (source). This mechanism enforces their copyright protections more robustly.
Data protection laws in many countries also expect companies like TikTok to maintain accurate user identities. Allowing duplicate accounts makes it harder to verify users and keep data properly associated with each legal person. TikTok’s one account approach assists in complying with these type of regulations.
Alternatives for Multiple Accounts
Since TikTok prohibits multiple personal accounts linked to one device, brands looking to establish an on-platform presence may wonder how to best maximize their reach and engagement. Rather than trying to create and manage multiple accounts, brands should consider leveraging the platform’s business accounts.
TikTok’s business accounts provide useful analytics like insights into audience demographics and content performance. They also enable paid advertising options to further expand brand visibility and awareness. Additionally, business accounts can easily collaborate with multiple managers by adding them to the account.
Another alternative for brands is partnering with established creators and influencers relevant to their niche. Collaborating with creators allows brands to tap into pre-existing audiences rather than starting from scratch. It also brings authenticity through trusted voices on the platform. Brands should ensure transparent sponsorship disclosures and select partners who genuinely appreciate their products.
Overall, leveraging business accounts and strategic partnerships can effectively help brands maximize their marketing potential on TikTok without violating policies against multiple personal accounts.
Conclusion
In summary, TikTok’s one account per device policy exists to limit underage users, maintain user identity, prevent spam and abuse, and protect copyright and user data. While this restricts the ability to have multiple accounts on one phone, the rationale behind these limitations is reasonable. TikTok aims to create a safe, trustworthy environment for genuine engagement between real users. Operating within these constraints allows the platform to function smoothly and remain an enjoyable experience for all.
Though some users may wish for more flexibility, having multiple accounts on one device could enable dishonest behavior. Responsible use means respecting the rules that enable the community to thrive. With creativity and care, TikTokers can find fulfillment through a single account, developing an authentic identity and meaningful connections. By focusing on quality over quantity, one account is all that’s needed to get the most out of TikTok.
