Myth Buster - The Troubling Rise of TikTok?

TikToklets users film videos of themselves lip syncing or acting out comedy sketches and can choose from a catalogue of songs, sound effects and filters.

The lip-syncing, meme-filled app has risen in popularity all over the world and shows no signs of slowing down any time soon. However, for some, TikTok’s quick rise in popularity has caused concern, but what facts can be separated from fiction?

Myth #1: TikTok Is Banned In Certain Countries

Earlier this year, TikTok was banned in India, with the government prohibiting downloads of the app over fears for child safety and cultural degradation. However, the ban only lasted for a week, with the decision reversed following a court hearing.

Technically, the ban only affected new customers who wanted to download the app and the app was still available to use for its 120 million active monthly users in India. Similarly, TikTok was also banned in Indonesia in July 2018, however this decision was also overturned after a week.

Myth #2: TikTok Is Only For Generation Z

Of course, TikTok is widely popular amongst young teens but that doesn’t mean the app is only targeted at Gen Z. The app might be for creating and sharing short lip-syncing or dancing videos to popular songs, but the silly memes and bizarre humour can be enjoyed by all ages.

From military personnel to nurses, people of all ages from all backgrounds are using TikTok worldwide. The app is fun to use and often the comedy sketches posted by its users can act as a de-stressor to everyday life. So, millennials and boomers know there’s no need for “FOMO” when it comes to TikTok!

Myth #3: TikTok Is Just Another App For Influencers

Like any other social media site, TikTok has its own set of influencers, called “musers”. With influencers often comes the assumption of ads and sponsored content that has made its way into other forms of social media.

However, unlike other forms of social media, TikTok is not used as business by influencers or “musers”. Though it can be used as a marketing channel, and brands can get users to generate brand-related content, TikTok is still very much about entertainment for the everyday user – and you don’t need millions of followers to go viral!

Myth #4: TikTok Is Not Child Friendly

As a parent, it can be hard to keep up with the social media your children are using and whether or not it is safe. Controversial headlines and government concerns from countries like India mean a lot of people ask if TikTok is safe?

Though there is always the risk for inappropriate behaviour on social media, TikTok has improved privacy settings and introduced new features to make the app a safer environment. Users can report videos, messages or comments that violate the Terms of Use. Parental control features have also been added and users can also set their accounts to private, so they have greater control over who sees their videos.