TikTok, the wildly popular short-video app, is embroiled in privacy and security debates due to its Chinese ownership by ByteDance. With the U.S. potentially banning the app unless ByteDance sells it, and millions of users affected, people are scrambling for ways to keep using TikTok unblocked. Here's how you can still enjoy the app, no matter where you are, with tips on VPNs, app store region changes, and a brand new stable method.
Why Is TikTok Blocked?
TikTok, the popular short-video app owned by the Chinese company ByteDance, has faced increasing concerns over privacy and security. Many worry that the Chinese government could potentially access sensitive user data from TikTok, which has led the U.S. government to take action. Legislation was passed to ban TikTok unless the company is sold to a buyer approved by the U.S. government.
On December 6, President Biden signed a law that gives ByteDance a year to sell TikTok. However, TikTok's first attempt to challenge this law failed when three federal judges unanimously decided that the law did not violate the First Amendment. TikTok has since said it will appeal the decision to the U.S. Supreme Court.
Currently, TikTok has 170 million users in the United States, and a ban could happen as early as mid-January, unless it receives a court-ordered injunction that would pause the law. This situation has left many people wondering how to unblock on TikTok and what options are available to continue using the app.
How Will the Ban Work?
If the U.S. government moves forward with the TikTok ban, the focus will be on app stores like Apple’s App Store and Google Play. These stores will be prohibited from distributing or updating TikTok. If they continue to do so, they could face civil penalties. In addition, internet hosting companies that help distribute or maintain TikTok would also be banned from providing support to the app.
The push to force ByteDance to sell TikTok has sparked discussions about who might buy the app. Potential buyers include a group of investors led by former Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, major American corporations, or private equity firms. Billionaire Frank McCourt has also shown interest in leading the purchase of TikTok.
The "sell-or-be-banned" approach has raised concerns among digital rights advocates. They worry that the U.S. may be undermining its commitment to a free and open internet, one that isn’t controlled by any single country. This move could set a precedent for other governments to control or block apps and services based on national interests, potentially limiting access to information and digital freedom.
How to Unblock TikTok: Methods to Access TikTok in Restricted Regions
If you're facing a TikTok block, there are a few ways to access the app and keep enjoying the content. One popular method is using a VPN. A VPN for TikTok helps unblock TikTok by masking your IP address and making it appear as if you're in a country where the app is accessible. Another method to unblock TikTok is by changing your TikTok business country settings in the app store, allowing you to download TikTok from a region where it's still available. Here are the methods to unblock TikTok.
Using a VPN (Virtual Private Network)
Using a VPN for TikTok offers several advantages. First, it helps you bypass geographic restrictions by masking your IP address with one from a country where TikTok is not blocked, allowing you to access the app without issues. A VPN also enhances your privacy and security by encrypting your internet traffic, which is especially important when using public Wi-Fi or browsing in countries with strict internet regulations. Additionally, a VPN can prevent throttling, which occurs when some internet service providers slow down your connection when using apps like TikTok. Finally, a VPN can help you access global content on TikTok, including exclusive videos that may be available only in certain regions or countries.
How to Unblock TikTok with a VPN
Choose a Trusted VPN Provider To unblock TikTok, you need a reliable VPN. Look for services like NordVPN, ExpressVPN, or Surfshark, which are known for bypassing geo-restrictions. A good VPN should have:
A wide server network in countries where TikTok is accessible.
Strong encryption standards (like AES-256) to protect your data.
A strict no-logs policy for maximum privacy.
High-speed connections to stream TikTok smoothly without buffering.
Subscription and Download Start by signing up for a VPN subscription on the provider's website. Many VPNs offer trial periods or money-back guarantees, so you can test the service before committing. Then, download the VPN app for your device, whether it’s iOS, Android, Windows, or macOS, directly from the official site or app store.
Installation and Setup Once the app is downloaded, install it and log in with your account details. You might need to grant location access if the app requests it, as this helps with server selection.
Connect to a Server Open the VPN app and browse through the list of server locations. Choose a server in a country where TikTok is available. Once you connect, your IP address will show as if you’re in that country, allowing you to bypass any restrictions.
Access TikTok With the VPN active, open the TikTok app or visit the TikTok website. It should now load as if you're in a country where TikTok is not blocked. If you run into any issues, try switching to a different server in the same or another country where TikTok is accessible.
Changing App Store Region
If TikTok isn’t available in your country’s app store, you can change your app store region to download it from a country where it’s accessible. Here’s how to do it for iOS devices:
For iOS Devices
Open the App Store: Go to the App Store on your device. Tap on your profile picture or initials in the top right corner to open your account settings.
Change Country/Region: Scroll down and tap on "Country/Region." Then, select "Change Country or Region" and choose a country where TikTok is available.
Update Payment Method: When prompted, update your payment details. If you don’t have a payment method for the new country, select "None." You’ll also need to enter a valid address for the country you're choosing, even if it’s not your real address.
Download TikTok: After changing your region, search for TikTok in the App Store and download it. You should now be able to access TikTok as if you're in a country where the app is available.
For Android Devices
Create a New Google Account: Since the Google Play Store region is linked to your Google Account, you may need to create a new account with an email address from a country where TikTok is available. Set up the account with that country’s region.
Change Google Play Store Country: Log into your new Google Account on your device. Open the Google Play Store, tap your profile icon, then go to "Settings" or "Account." Look for the option to change your country or region and select one where TikTok is accessible. You may need to add a payment method, such as a gift card or credit card, that isn’t tied to your current location.
Download TikTok: After the region change is confirmed, search for TikTok in the Google Play Store and download the app. You should now have full access to TikTok.
Pros and Cons of Changing App Store Region
Pros
Cons
No ongoing subscription costs like with VPNs; it's a one-time setup to access TikTok.
The process can be cumbersome, involving creating new accounts or managing multiple accounts for different regions.
You might need to switch back to your original region for other apps or services, which can be inconvenient if you access region-specific content or services frequently.
There may be limitations on how often you can change your region, and Google may require a waiting period before switching back or changing to another region.
Using Browser-Based Solutions
Websites like Now.gg enable you to use mobile apps, including TikTok, directly from your web browser without the need to download the app. This cloud-based solution streams the app from its servers, allowing you to bypass geographic restrictions or device limitations.
Steps:
Visit Now.gg or Similar Sites: Navigate to a browser-based gaming or app platform like Now.gg. These sites are designed to run mobile apps in a cloud environment, which means you can access them via any modern web browser.
Select TikTok: Once on the platform, use the search function or browse through the available apps to find TikTok. When you locate TikTok, select it to launch the app. You'll be prompted to log in if you have an account, or you might have the option to use TikTok as a guest, depending on the service's implementation.
With this method, you can interact with TikTok's interface almost as if you had the app installed on your device. Keep in mind:
You'll need a stable internet connection since all data is being streamed from the cloud.
The experience might differ slightly from the native app in terms of performance or available features.
Privacy considerations are important, as you're essentially using a third-party service to access TikTok.
This approach offers a convenient workaround for accessing TikTok without the hassle of app installation or regional restrictions, provided you're comfortable with the implications of using such services.
Using a Proxy or Smart DNS
Proxies and Smart DNS services can redirect your internet traffic through a server located in a different country, allowing you to access content like TikTok that might be blocked in your region. Unlike VPNs, these methods typically don't encrypt your data, which means they offer less security but can be faster due to the lack of encryption overhead.
Find a Proxy or Smart DNS Service
Look for reputable services. For proxies, you might consider web-based free proxies or paid services like HMA Proxy. For Smart DNS, options include SmartDNSProxy or Unlocator. These services help in bypassing geographic restrictions by rerouting your DNS queries or web traffic.
For Proxy
If using a web proxy, simply enter the URL of the proxy site and enter TikTok's URL there.
For system-wide proxy setup, go to your device's network settings:
On Windows, go to "Settings" > "Network & Internet" > "Proxy", and enter the proxy server details.
On macOS, go to "System Preferences" > "Network" > "Advanced" > "Proxies", and configure the proxy settings.
On mobile devices, you'll find the proxy settings under Wi-Fi settings for the specific network you're connected to.
For Smart DNS
You'll need to change your DNS settings. On most devices, this is done in the network settings:
On routers, log into the admin panel and look for DNS settings where you can input the Smart DNS server IP addresses.
On computers or mobile devices, you can manually input the DNS server addresses in the network settings.
Once configured, open TikTok. The app should now fetch content as if you're connecting from the location of the proxy or DNS server.
Pros
Speed: Since proxies and Smart DNS do not encrypt your data, they can provide faster internet speeds compared to VPNs, making them suitable for streaming and browsing.
Cons
Security: Proxies, especially free ones, can be less secure, potentially exposing your data to others. There's also the risk of using a proxy that logs your activities or injects ads or malware.
Incomplete Coverage: Unlike VPNs, not all internet traffic might be rerouted through the proxy or Smart DNS, potentially leaving some data exposed to your ISP.
Privacy: Free proxy services might sell your data or use it for other purposes. Smart DNS also doesn't offer encryption, so your data remains visible to anyone intercepting the traffic.
Using a SIM Card or eSIM to Unblock TikTok
One effective way to bypass geo-blocks and access TikTok from a region where it’s restricted is by using a SIM card or eSIM from a country where the app is available. These can be purchased online from providers that cater to travellers and digital nomads, such as Tello for U.S.-based eSIMs or Airalo for global eSIM options. Once you have your SIM or eSIM, the next step is to insert or activate it. For a physical SIM, simply insert the new SIM card into your device’s SIM slot and restart your phone if needed. For an eSIM, go to your phone’s settings (on iOS, navigate to Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan; on Android, go to Network & Internet > Mobile Network > Add Carrier) and scan or enter the activation details provided by the eSIM provider. Once the SIM or eSIM is active, open TikTok. The app will recognize your new location and give you access to content and features as if you’re in the country where the SIM is from.
Pros:
No Additional Software: Unlike VPNs, this method doesn’t require extra software, making it a simpler solution.
Immediate Effect: The change is instant, and you can access TikTok as soon as the SIM or eSIM is activated.
Cons:
Cost: International SIM cards or eSIMs can be expensive, especially for short-term use.
Service Disruption: Using a foreign SIM might cause you to lose access to your local phone number and services.
Change TikTok Business Country: A Step-by-Step Guide
Just as individuals might need to unblock TikTok or change their app store region to access content, businesses might require adjusting their TikTok business account's country settings for market expansion or compliance. This change can help in targeting ads to new regions, adapting content for different audiences, or managing business operations under the new country's laws, much like how using a VPN or a SIM card allows personal access to TikTok in restricted areas.
Access TikTok Business Settings: Log into your TikTok Business account, similar to how you might log into TikTok after setting up a VPN or changing your app store region.
Navigate to the Account Information: Go to the settings menu, akin to configuring your device for a proxy or Smart DNS service to access restricted content.
Find the Country/Region Option: Within the account settings, locate the "Business Information" where you can change your "Country/Region". This is comparable to selecting a server location in a VPN or choosing a new region in app stores.
Select New Country: Choose the country for your business operations, much like you would select an accessible country for unblocking TikTok with a VPN or SIM card.
Verify Your Business (If Required): Depending on the new country, you might need to re-verify your business, similar to how some methods might require additional steps like clearing cache or restarting your device for location changes to take effect.
Update Payment and Tax Information: Just as changing your app store region might necessitate altering payment methods, updating your business account's country will require you to adjust tax and payment details to comply with local laws.
Review Ads and Content: Adapt your ad campaigns and content for the new market, reflecting the same kind of localization you might do when using browser-based solutions to access TikTok from different regions.
Save Changes: After making and confirming your changes, similar to saving new DNS settings or confirming a VPN connection, your business account should now reflect the new country.
Pros
Market Expansion: Much like accessing TikTok in new regions gives you content from different cultures, changing your business country can open up new markets for your brand.
Compliance: Ensures your operations align with local regulations, just as using VPNs or eSIMs helps comply with access laws in different countries.
Cons
Verification Delays: The process might take time, mirroring the delays sometimes experienced with VPNs or when adapting to new SIM cards.
Content Adaptation: Requires effort to adjust content for a new audience, similar to how users might need to interact with different content when changing regions.
Potential Loss of Local Market Insights: Moving to a new region might mean losing a nuanced understanding of your original market, akin to the cultural shift one might experience when accessing TikTok from a new location.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
When attempting to access TikTok in regions where it's banned or restricted, users might encounter several issues. Here's a rundown of common problems and how to troubleshoot them:
Network Errors or Connection Issues
Symptoms: Messages like "Failed to Connect" or "Server Error"
Solutions:
Check Internet Connection: Ensure your internet is stable. Try switching between Wi-Fi and mobile data.
VPN Server Overload: If using a VPN, try connecting to a different server, especially one that's geographically closer or less crowded.
Clear DNS Cache:
Android: Go into developer options to clear it.
iOS: Restart your device or reset network settings.
Account Bans or Suspensions
Symptoms: Unable to log in, error messages about account bans
Solutions:
Check for Violations: Review TikTok's community guidelines to ensure compliance.
Appeal the Ban: Use TikTok's support system to appeal, though success isn't guaranteed.
New Account: Consider creating a new account, but be mindful of multi-account policies.
Content Not Loading or Slow Performance
Symptoms: Videos won't load, app responsiveness is poor.
iOS: Uninstall and reinstall or offload the app to clear cache (iOS 11+).
2.Check VPN Settings: Ensure your VPN isn't slowing down your connection; switch to a faster server if needed.
3.Update TikTok: Check for app updates which might resolve performance issues.
4.Reinstall the App:
Android: Download TikTok APK from a trusted source if the Play Store is restricted.
iOS: Reinstall from the App Store after changing your region or using a VPN.
The app Won't Update or Install
Symptoms: Unable to update or install TikTok from official app stores.
Solutions:
Change App Store Region: Modify your app store's region for access to updates or installation.
Use APK for Android: Sideload from a legitimate source, being cautious of malware risks.
VPN for App Store: Temporarily connect to a country where updates are available for installation.
Geo-Restriction Messages
Symptoms: Direct messages stating the app isn't available in your region.
Solutions:
VPN or Proxy: Change your IP to access TikTok from an operational region.
eSIM or Physical SIM Swap: Use a SIM from an unrestricted region to bypass geo-blocks.
Security Concerns with Workarounds:
Symptoms: Worries about privacy or security when using VPNs, proxies, or APKs.
Solutions:
Choose Reputable Services: Select VPNs or proxies with good privacy policies.
Antivirus and Security Software: Keep your device secure, especially when using alternative app installation methods.
An alternative way to access your TikTok without getting banned
Just as VPNs, changing app store regions, or using browser-based solutions can help you access TikTok in restricted zones or manage multiple accounts, DICloak's anti-detect browser provides another avenue. By altering your digital fingerprint, DICloak ensures your TikTok activities aren't easily traced or linked, allowing you to engage with the app from any location without the threat of account bans. This method is particularly useful when the traditional approaches like VPNs might not suffice due to heightened security measures or when managing several TikTok accounts for different purposes, similar to how changing app store regions or using different SIM cards can offer access but with their own set of challenges and limitations.
Head to our download page to get DICloak for your device, available for both Windows and Mac.
Install the app, then log in if you have an account, or sign up for a new one directly on the DICloak website. You'll land on the profile settings page.Create Profiles and Configure Proxies
Click 'Create Profile' in the top left corner. Input your profile name, add necessary remarks, group your profile, and select your OS.
In the settings, either generate a new proxy or choose from existing ones. Test the connection to confirm it's operational.
Explainer: What Proxy Type Do I Need?
When choosing a proxy type, it's essential to consider both cost and security to find the best fit for your needs.
Residential Proxies simulate regular desktop computers and are the most popular option due to their balance of cost and safety. They offer a high level of anonymity, making them suitable for various online activities, including accessing platforms like Craigslist.
Mobile Proxies provide a mobile IP address, making it harder to detect and perceived as more natural by websites. While these proxies offer superior security, they tend to be more expensive, making them a great choice for sensitive tasks requiring a low risk of detection.
Data Center Proxies are the most cost-effective option but offer less security compared to residential and mobile proxies. These proxies work well if your device already has a high trust level on a specific website, making them suitable for less sensitive browsing or testing.
Add on your TikTok Account
Add your TikTok account platform details or URL to your profile for easy access. This step ensures quick navigation to TikTok when you run the profile.
Settings Setup
General Settings: Customized data sync, browser settings, turn on multi-open mode if you wish your profile to be open by a few members
Advanced Settings: Customize language, time zone, geolocation, and more. Once configured, confirm to finalize your profile setup.
Run your Tiktok account
Launch your profile to log into or sign up for TikTok. The browser will save your credentials for future use, just like a regular browser.
Run Multiple TikTok account
Clone your TikTok profile to manage your accounts seamlessly! With DICloak, you can effortlessly transfer crucial data like cookies and platform information to new profiles. Once cloned, you won't need to log in again, as all the data is automatically synced to the cloud. DICloak ensures your profile information is cloud-synchronized, saving you time and simplifying account management!
We also offer alternative methods to create multiple browsers, in addition to the traditional approach of creating them one by one. With features like batch import and batch create, you can efficiently set up numerous browser profiles, streamlining your workflow and saving time.
Batch Import: Batch Import allows you to set up multiple browser profiles by importing a list of configurations or settings in bulk. This is particularly useful when you have pre-defined profile data from another source or wish to replicate settings across many profiles.
Batch Create: Batch Create is designed for users who need to generate multiple browser profiles with similar or identical settings but different identifiers or minor variations quickly.
FAQs about Tiktok Unblocked
How to get TikTok unblocked?
How can I unblock TikTok on my phone? If you're interested in unblocking TikTok on your iPhone or Android devices, get a reliable VPN — it's the simplest way to access TikTok if your network blocks it safely.
How do I access banned TikTok?
Open the notification.
Tap Appeal.
Follow the instructions provided.
Does TikTok detect VPN?
If you try to access TikTok with a VPN that has provided you with an IP address that is currently blocked, your effort will not be successful. This is possible because TikTok has VPN detection techniques, so they blacklist all the IPs that are associated with VPN usage.
How do I access restricted TikTok?
In the TikTok app, tap Profile at the bottom.
Tap the Menu ☰ button at the top, then select Settings and Privacy.
Tap Content preferences.
Tap Restricted Mode.
Follow the steps in the app to set or enter a passcode, then turn Restricted Mode on or off.
Does TikTok work in China?
There Is No TikTok in China, but There Is Douyin. Here's What It Is. ByteDance owns both TikTok and Douyin, and although TikTok has more users around the world, Douyin is the company's cash cow and a China mainstay. In China, there is no TikTok.
Share to:
Contents
Why Is TikTok Blocked?
How Will the Ban Work?
How to Unblock TikTok: Methods to Access TikTok in Restricted Regions
Change TikTok Business Country: A Step-by-Step Guide
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
An alternative way to access your TikTok without getting banned
FAQs about Tiktok Unblocked
DICloak Anti-detect Browser keeps your multiple account management safe and away from bans
Anti-detection and stay anonymous, develop your business on a large scale