A Complete Guide On How To Use TikTok’s Privacy Settings

The consensus is that TikTok isn’t big on privacy. This is a misnomer because the app offers several privacy settings and features for its users to apply. So, if you’re concerned about security and privacy while using TikTok, check out the following guide on how to use the platform’s privacy settings.

TikTok’s Privacy and Security Measures

TikTok is committed to protecting its users while they’re using the platform. To that extent, the app has expanded its privacy settings. Users have granular control over their data and can choose who sees their videos, comments, and direct messages. Moreover, TikTok doesn’t force personalized advertising and gives users an opt-out for these ads and other data collection activities.

In addition to privacy settings, TikTok offers extensive security measures to protect user data. This includes encryption technology, two-factor authentication, and a secure login process.

Furthermore, TikTok has a dedicated Safety Center. This valuable resource offers guidelines and reporting tools that promote safe online behavior. The app has a team of moderators on standby and actively reviewing content to ensure everyone complies with the community guidelines.

TikTok also engages its users using a Safety Advisory Board that collects feedback and offers insights into its ongoing privacy and security measures.

Navigating TikTok’s Privacy Settings

If you use TikTok and do not know where and how to adjust your privacy settings, start by tapping your profile icon. Access the main menu by tapping the three horizontal lines in the top right corner and selecting ‘Settings and Privacy.’

From here, you can make several changes. The most pivotal privacy setting is a private account. Only approved followers can see your videos and profile information if you change your account to private. To switch to private, go to ‘Privacy’ and select ‘Private Account.’

Another setting you may want to change is the one that allows only certain people to see your videos if you have a public account. Under ‘Privacy’, tap ‘Who can see your videos’ and choose your preference among: Everyone, Friends, or Only Me.

When TikTok introduced the Duet and Stitch features, they expanded the app’s privacy settings to cater to them. You can decide who can create duets with your videos or who can stitch your videos by selecting the appropriate options under the Privacy setting. Furthermore, you can also choose who can comment on your videos by tapping on ‘Comments’ and selecting your preferred option.

Direct Messages and Suggested Contacts

The direct message function on TikTok is useful but comes with some challenges. Firstly, the open nature of the messaging system has long raised privacy concerns. Anyone can DM a user regardless of whether they follow each other. This often leads to unwanted and intrusive messages.

DMs can also be a breeding ground for cyberbullying, hate speech, and even predatory behavior. The option of sending anonymous DMs sometimes gives the wrong people the courage to engage in harmful interactions.

The fallout of negative interactions, especially from strangers, is stress, distress, and anxiety. TikTok has enabled users to choose who can send them direct messages to mitigate this. There is also a ‘No One’ option for users who don’t want to deal with DMs.

TikTok has another feature that not all users are on board with. The suggested contacts feature means that TikTok suggests you add contacts from your phone or other social media platforms. If you don’t want these suggestions, go to the Suggested Contacts option and toggle the switch to “Off”.

Other Privacy Settings

TikTok offers several other privacy settings. These include ad opt-outs, managing data usage, and choosing how TikTok collects or uses your data. These settings sit under the Data Policy menu.

You can also remove your location access on TikTok to prevent the app from tracking your movements. And you can revoke access to third-party apps to prevent viruses and other problems.

Use a unique password to log into your TikTok account. Consider enabling two-factor authentication for added protection.

If you encounter inappropriate comments on your feed or DMs, don’t hesitate to report it to TikTok. Review and adjust your privacy settings regularly to protect your data and gain peace of mind.

Benefits of TikTok Privacy Settings

Using TikTok’s privacy settings correctly means you can shield your personal information and prevent it from potentially landing in the wrong hands. TikTok will always collect large amounts of user data, including browsing behavior, location information, and personal details. However, you can limit this by controlling how much data TikTok can access.

The biggest benefit of the app’s privacy settings is that you can protect yourself and even your family from unwanted interactions. If your children use TikTok, you should add restrictions to their accounts. Limit who can see their videos and send them direct messages. Cyberbullying and harassment are rampant among the younger generation, but you can safeguard your children by implementing these privacy settings.

Hate speech is also a big problem on TikTok (and other social media platforms). Fortunately, you can block out the noise by adjusting your privacy settings to filter out harmful content.

TikTok’s privacy and security measures allow you to protect your online reputation and your digital identity.

Implement the Right Privacy Settings For You

Before you change your privacy settings, educate yourself about all the potential risks associated with social media usage. Knowing what to protect yourself and your account against will help you choose the correct privacy settings. You should also be a part of the privacy movement on TikTok by setting an example for others. When other users see that you are serious about protecting your online identity, it may motivate them to do the same. This will help contribute to a more positive online community.

Implementing a privacy strategy on TikTok will go a long way in preventing potential problems in the future. TikTok will continue to grow in popularity, and as such, the platform’s data collection practices will constantly evolve. Your account privacy settings will protect you throughout this process and keep all your information safe.