TikTok FAQ
Answers to common TikTok questions about age checks, recommended content, monetisation, and account safety.
Access & age checks
- Can I bypass the prompt without sending an ID?
- Adults can appeal within the app-submit a current selfie video and wait for the automated review. If you travel, a VPN may restore access to mature features, but you're still bound by local law. Repeated denials require a government ID.
Feed & privacy
- Why is my For You feed suddenly 'Level 1' only?
- TikTok assigns Content Levels (L1, L2, L3) after you verify age. If the system can't confirm you're 18+, it locks to L1 and removes mature wellness, finance, and suggestive clips. Verify age or adjust your birthdate (if incorrect) to restore higher levels.
- How do I stop TikTok from tracking my off-app activity?
- Visit Settings - Privacy - Ads and disable personalized ads. On iOS, block 'Allow TikTok to track' and clear data under Settings - Account - Download your data. Periodically reset your advertising ID and purge search history.
- Can strangers still DM me after the new safeguards?
- Default DM permission is 'Friends only' for all users under 18 and for adults who haven't turned it back on. Check Settings - Privacy - Direct messages to tighten controls further.
Creators & monetisation
- What changed with TikTok's creator payouts?
- The Creativity Program Beta graduated into the Creativity Suite with higher RPMs for videos over one minute, live gifts, and TikTok Shop affiliate slots. You must verify ID, enable 2FA, and maintain a trust score above 4.0.
- Why was my shop suspended after the new compliance review?
- TikTok Shop audits all sellers for KYC and product sourcing. Upload invoices, confirm warehouse addresses, and complete the Responsible Seller quiz to lift holds.
- How do I protect my account from deepfake abuse?
- Enable content credentials in Settings - Creator tools - AI content label. TikTok auto-detects synthetic media, but labeling keeps your account in good standing and avoids takedowns.
Quick checklist
- Keep a recent selfie and government ID handy when travelling through regulated regions.
- Review the TikTok full review to understand new monetisation requirements.
- Bookmark the TikTok access guide for VPN and network bypass steps.
Fast appeals
If your account is wrongly flagged during age checks, submit the in-app appeal before emailing support. Appeals carry timestamps moderators trust more than email screenshots.
Need more? Visit TikTok Help - Safety Centre or contact your regional support rep through Creator Support Live Chat.