With the Supreme Court upholding the TikTok ban, the widely popular video-sharing platform is set to go offline in the U.S. on Sunday.
This sudden development raises pressing concerns for millions of users about preserving their videos and personal data. Whether you’re a content creator or a casual viewer, here’s how you can protect your content before TikTok goes dark.
Save Your TikTok Videos and Photos
TikTok allows users to download videos and photos directly to their devices. Here’s how you can save your favorite content:
- Locate the Content
- Open the TikTok app and go to your profile.
- Select the video you want to save.
- Download the Video
- Tap the Share button on the right-hand side of the screen.
- Choose the Save Video option to download it.
- Understand Restrictions
- Be aware that some creators disable downloads for their content. Videos in your Likes, Reposts, or Bookmarks may not have a download option.
- For Bulk Downloads
- If you have a large library, manual downloads can be time-consuming.
- Third-party apps may offer bulk download features, but ensure you use trusted tools to avoid security risks.
Request Your TikTok Data
You can request a comprehensive data file for a broader snapshot of your TikTok activity. This includes your username, viewing history, comments, and privacy settings. Follow these steps to secure your data:
- Access the Data Request Feature
- Go to your TikTok profile, tap the Menu button, and open Settings.
- Navigate to Account and select Download your data.
- Customize Your Request
- Choose the type of data you want and specify the file format: TXT for readable text or JSON for structured data.
- Submit the Request
- Tap Request Data and wait for TikTok to process your request. This may take several days.
- Download the File
- Once notified that your file is ready, download it within four days to avoid losing access.
Why TikTok is Facing a Ban in the U.S.
The U.S. government has cited national security concerns as the primary reason for banning TikTok. With 170 million American users, TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, is accused of potentially sharing sensitive user data with the Chinese government.
Lawmakers have highlighted concerns about espionage, harassment, and recruitment through the platform.
The Supreme Court upheld the ban, referencing TikTok’s “scale and susceptibility to foreign adversary control” as a risk. ByteDance’s refusal to sell TikTok’s U.S. operations has left the app’s future uncertain.
What Happens After January 19?
If no resolution is reached, TikTok will effectively “go dark” in the U.S. Here’s what to expect:
- App Store Restrictions: TikTok will no longer be available for download on major app stores.
- Hosting Blocks: Internet service providers will block hosting services for TikTok.
- Existing Users: Current users may retain limited access, but without updates, the app’s functionality will degrade over time.
Migration to REDnote
As the ban looms, many TikTok users are exploring alternative platforms like REDnote (Xiaohongshu), a Shanghai-based social media app. While some see REDnote as a viable alternative, challenges persist:
- Limited Monetization: REDnote’s primary audience is in China, making it difficult for U.S. creators to connect with American followers or attract local brands.
Global Impact of the TikTok Ban
The TikTok ban’s effects extend beyond the U.S.
- Australian Concerns: Australian influencers may lose access to U.S. audiences if new content from American creators ceases.
- International Scrutiny: Some governments, including Australia’s, are evaluating TikTok’s presence amid security concerns.
Could the Ban Be Reversed?
The decision ultimately rests with president-elect Donald Trump, who takes office on Monday.
While Trump has expressed an interest in reviewing TikTok’s future, his administration has hinted that a neutral sale of TikTok’s U.S. operations could allow the app to remain operational—though ByteDance has rejected this proposal.
Preparing for the Transition
As the ban approaches, here’s how you can prepare:
- Back up your videos and data using TikTok’s built-in features.
- Consider alternative platforms like Instagram Reels or YouTube Shorts.
- Familiarize yourself with emerging apps like REDnote to maintain your audience.
Act Now: Time is Running Out
With the shutdown imminent, users are urged to act quickly. Initiate data requests immediately, as processing times can take several days.
For those with large content libraries, cautiously explore third-party tools for bulk downloads, prioritizing security.
Final Checklist for TikTok Users
- Save individual videos and photos.
- Request a TikTok data file to preserve your activity log.
- Evaluate secure third-party apps for bulk downloads.
- Explore alternative platforms to maintain your presence.
By taking these steps, you can safeguard your content and prepare for a post-TikTok era. Don’t wait—act now to ensure a smooth transition.
