Every social media platform has a set of rules that users must follow, and failure to do so often means facing serious repercussions. TikTok is no exception, and you risk getting banned from the platform if you go against the community guidelines agreement.
A TikTok ban means you can’t access part or all of the platform’s features. It’s a form of punishment that TikTok uses to keep its users in check and maintain its platform community values. An account can either be banned temporarily or permanently, depending on the severity of the violation.
TikTok bans can be very serious, especially if you’re an avid user of the social media platform. Let’s take a look at everything you need to know about TikTok’s community guidelines, the different kinds of bans, and how to appeal if you’ve been banned and feel it was done unjustly.
What Is a TikTok Ban and How Long Does It Last?
If you’ve been banned from TikTok, you’ll no longer be allowed access to the platform’s features. TikTok uses bans to punish users who violate the platform’s guidelines and community values.
The length of a TikTok ban depends on how serious the violation is and whether there have been any previous offenses. There are two types of bans: temporary and permanent.
When TikTok temporarily bans your account, it typically restricts you to a viewing-only experience. You can’t edit your profile, comment, send direct messages, post content, or start a LIVE. The ban will last between 24 and 48 hours and, in some instances, may extend to 72 hours or one week.
Temporary bans are often given for minor infractions such as posting content that’s deemed inappropriate, bullying, or spamming.
Permanent bans are more severe and usually result in the removal of your account. You won’t be able to access your account anymore, and the platform will delete any content that you’ve posted.
This could be due to severe violations such as hate speech, illegal activities, or sharing inappropriate content. In such cases, TikTok may block your device to prevent you from creating an account in the future.
How Does TikTok Know When to Ban an Account?
There are two main ways that TikTok monitors for inappropriate activity. The first way is that it relies on its user community to report inappropriate behavior. The platform will take action if a user is reported multiple times.
The other way is that TikTok’s in-app algorithm constantly monitors the platform to detect and flag any violations. Once a video is flagged, it’ll be under review, and TikTok’s safety team determines whether the video has truly violated the community guidelines.
If the team identifies a violation, the content is removed, and the account is notified of the reason. If there’s no violation, no action is taken.
It’s important to note that TikTok doesn’t usually ban an account on the first violation. You’ll receive a warning first, and only if you continue violating the platform’s policies will your account be permanently banned.
What Causes an Account to Get Banned?
TikTok bans accounts for violating its community guidelines. This includes but is not limited to creating or posting content that:
- Promotes violence or hate speech
- Promotes crime and illegal activities
- Includes bullying, harassment, or other forms of intimidation
- Contains pornography or sexually explicit material
- Contains child sex abuse material (CSAM)
- Contains false marketing schemes, scams, and frauds
- Contains racial slurs and hate speech
- Contains violent and graphic content such as deaths and accidents
- Infringes or violates someone else’s trademarks, copyrights, or other intellectual property rights
Even if you don’t post any content but still engage in any of the behaviors mentioned above, you may also be banned.
Also, avoid engaging in activities that may abuse or undermine TikTok’s reliability, integrity, and security, such as:
- Attempting to access TikTok through unauthorized means
- Allowing others to use your account for malicious activities
- Sharing content or files that contain viruses and malware
- Requesting users’ personal information such as passwords and financial details
How to Prevent Your Account From Getting Banned
The best way to avoid getting banned is by adhering to TikTok’s community guidelines and terms of service. This includes keeping your content appropriate and respectful, not engaging in any illegal activities, and respecting the intellectual property rights of others.
Moreover, you should remain vigilant about the activities taking place on your account. Ensure that you have a secure password and avoid sharing it with others. Also, use two-factor authentication for an added layer of security, and promptly report any suspicious activities.
Finally, be mindful when engaging with other users. Don’t engage in hate speech or any form of bullying, and make sure to take immediate action if someone is trying to access your account without permission.
However, getting banned from TikTok isn’t the end of the road. If you find yourself in such a situation, there are a few actions you can take.
What to Do if You Get Banned on TikTok
Depending on why you were banned, there are a few steps you can take to try and get your account reinstated.
First, if your account is on hold temporarily, don’t fret. Give it some time and check back once the hold is over. As mentioned earlier, this can take between 24 hours and a week, depending on the reason for the ban.
But if you were banned for violation of the community guidelines, you can submit an appeal to the support team. If your account was banned unjustly, then the platform may review your case and reinstate your account.
Here’s how to file an appeal with TikTok:
- Open the TikTok app.
- A message will pop up telling you that your account has been permanently banned. Tap Appeal. Sometimes, this pop-up doesn’t provide you with the appeal option. If this is the case, contact TikTok customer service at [email protected].
- You’ll be directed to a help center where you need to fill in a form. Provide your account ID, email address, or the phone number that was attached to the account and the reason for the ban.
- You’ll also need to explain why you think the decision to ban your account was unjust. It would be helpful to share screenshots or any other material that could help your case.
Appeal Denied, What Next?
If your appeal is denied, there’s one last option for you. It’s not the most ethical road to take, but it still works. Use a VPN to hide your IP address from TikTok and create a new account. Go for trustworthy and paid-for VPNs such as ExpressVPN.
This way, you can bypass the ban and get back to using TikTok without any risks. Nevertheless, ensure that you don’t engage in any activities that could get you banned again.
A Safe Hub for All
TikTok is committed to creating a safe and secure platform for its users. It uses all the resources to ensure everyone is playing by the rules. The app was created as a fun space to share content and connect with others across the globe.
If you want to ensure that your account isn’t at risk, read the platform’s community guidelines and follow them closely.
Avoid engaging in activities that could get you banned, stay away from shady third parties, and ensure your data remains secure.
Above all, be mindful of the content you’re creating and respect the intellectual property rights of others. If everyone follows these simple rules, then TikTok will remain a safe and enjoyable space for everyone. Happy TikTok-ing!