TikTok requires you to take steps to secure your account by using the Security Checkup feature or managing security settings individually. You should link a phone number and email address to your account, enable 2-step verification, manage trusted devices, and create a strong unique password that doesn't include personal information.
Requirements
Link and verify a phone number and email address to your account
Create a strong, unique password that does not contain personal information like birthdays or phone numbers
Turn on 2-step verification
Manage trusted devices and review unfamiliar devices when prompted
Optionally add a passkey to your account
Why it matters
Securing your account protects you from unauthorized access and helps you recover your account if you lose login credentials.
TikTok provides a Security checkup feature to help you strengthen your account protection through multiple verification and authentication methods. You can link phone numbers and email addresses, enable 2-step verification, manage trusted devices, review security activity, and add passkeys to keep your account secure.
Requirements
Link and verify a phone number and email address to your account
Enable 2-step verification for added security
Turn on and manage trusted devices (review unfamiliar devices when prompted)
Create a strong, unique password that doesn't include personal information
Regularly check your account's security activity and review recent login attempts
Why it matters
Securing your account protects your content, audience, and business from unauthorized access, hacking, and potential loss of your creator or seller presence.
TikTok requires you to secure your account by creating a strong password, setting up a passkey for easier login, and enabling 2-step verification. These three layers of security protect your account from unauthorized access and help confirm your identity when you log in from new devices.
Requirements
Use a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
Use different passwords for different accounts.
Add a passkey to your TikTok account. For a more simple and secure login method, we strongly recommend setting up a passkey on your TikTok account. A passkey is a secure digital key stored on your mobile device that allows you to log in to your TikTok account without having to remember a password. Passkeys can provide a more secure login method than traditional passwords because they take advantage of security features already allowed on your device, such as Face ID (Apple), Passcode (Apple), Touch Unlock (Android), and PIN (Android). Additionally, you can log in to your passkey-enabled TikTok account from any device that is also signed in to your Apple ID or Google account. Learn more about how to log in to your TikTok account with a passkey. To set up a passkey on your TikTok account
Tap 2-step verification and choose at least two verification methods: Phone (recommended) Email (recommended) Authenticator (recommended). You'll need a third-party authenticator app, such as Google Authenticator or Microsoft Authenticator, installed on your device to use this option. Follow the instructions provided on the next screen to scan the QR code or copy the key provided. Enter the key on the authenticator app when you add an account for TikTok. Finally, enter the code provided by the authenticator app on the next screen in the TikTok app. Password
Who this applies to
All TikTok account holders
TikTok requires you to set up 2-step verification to confirm your identity when logging in. You'll receive a verification code via SMS, email, or authenticator app depending on your chosen method. If TikTok detects your password has been exposed in a data breach or leaked online, you must change it immediately to keep your account secure. You can also use a passkey instead of a password for stronger protection.
Requirements
Set up 2-step verification using SMS, email, or authenticator app. Change your password immediately if notified of exposure or compromise. Optionally set up a passkey as a more secure alternative to passwords. Review and remove unrecognized devices from your trusted devices list. Standard SMS fees may apply for verification codes.
Why it matters
Failing to secure your account with 2-step verification and strong passwords puts your account at risk of unauthorized access, and ignoring breach notifications could allow bad actors to take control of your account.
All TikTok users who have lost access to their account, lost their authenticator app, or had their account banned or content removed.
This policy explains how TikTok users can recover access to their accounts if they're locked out, reset their two-factor authentication, and appeal if their account is banned or content is removed. It covers three main account recovery scenarios: using friend verification, resetting an authenticator app, and contacting TikTok about enforcement actions.
Requirements
At least 2 friends are required for the verification process.
You'll be notified if you pass or fail verification. If you pass you'll be logged in automatically, and if you fail, you can try again or use another recovery method. How to reset your authentication method If you lose access to your third-party authenticator app, you'll need to reset your authentication method. To reset your authentication method
Follow the steps to reset your authentication method. If you lost your TOTP recovery code, tap Need more help?, then complete the information needed to authenticate your identity. After your identity is verified, you'll be able to reset your authentication method. Keep in mind that this process may take up to 30 days. How to contact TikTok about banned accounts Accounts that consistently violate Community Guidelines will be banned from TikTok. If your account has been banned, you'll receive a banner notification when you next open the app, informing you of this account change. If you believe your account was banned incorrectly, let us know by submitting an appeal. To submit an appeal
Follow the instructions provided. How to contact TikTok about removed posts Posts that violate our Community Guidelines will be removed from TikTok. If you believe your content was incorrectly removed, let us know by submitting an appeal. Your feedback helps us improve the ways that we keep our community safe.
Who this applies to
All TikTok users whose content has been removed for Community Guidelines violations
If your TikTok content is removed for violating Community Guidelines, you can appeal the decision through the app. You have two ways to submit an appeal: from your inbox notification or directly from the removed post. However, if you delete the content while your appeal is under review, TikTok may not be able to remove the violation from your record even if your appeal succeeds, and the content will not be restored.
Requirements
Submit appeals through the app via Inbox notification or the removed post page.
Do not delete appealed content while it is under review. Be aware that multiple violations can result in account penalties.
Why it matters
Understanding the appeal process and the consequences of deleting content during review is critical to protecting your account record and avoiding escalating penalties.
Online marketplace sellers and third-party sellers using platforms like TikTok Shop, Amazon, eBay, and other e-commerce sites
The INFORM Consumers Act is a federal law that requires online marketplaces and third-party sellers to provide clear, accurate information to buyers. This includes displaying seller contact details, disclosing material terms of sales, and preventing deceptive practices. The law applies to most online sales and aims to protect consumers from fraud and misleading listings.
Requirements
Display accurate seller name and contact information on product listings and checkout pages. Clearly disclose material terms including return policies, shipping costs, and delivery timeframes.
Do not use deceptive product descriptions, fake reviews, or misleading pricing.
Provide a mechanism for buyers to report violations.
Why it matters
Failure to comply can result in FTC enforcement action, fines, account suspension, and damage to your seller reputation. Compliance builds buyer trust and reduces chargebacks and returns.
Third-party sellers using online marketplaces and e-commerce platforms
The INFORM Consumers Act is a federal law that requires third-party sellers on online marketplaces to provide accurate business and contact information to the platform and to buyers. This rule applies to anyone selling products through marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, or similar platforms, and it's designed to help consumers identify who they're buying from and report problems if needed.
Requirements
Provide accurate business name and physical address to the marketplace.
Provide a working phone number or email for customer contact. Keep this information current and updated.
Disclose your seller identity clearly to buyers.
Why it matters
Failure to comply can result in account suspension, removal from the marketplace, and potential FTC enforcement action or fines. Buyers are more likely to trust and purchase from sellers with transparent, verifiable information.
All third-party sellers on online platforms, including TikTok Shop sellers.
The INFORM Consumers Act requires online sellers to verify their identities and provide certain information to platforms where they sell. This helps ensure consumers can trust that they are buying from legitimate sellers.
Requirements
You must verify your identity with supporting documentation.
You may need to provide personal information, such as your name, address, and tax identification number.
Selling platforms will collect and retain this information to enhance consumer trust.
Why it matters
Failure to comply could result in loss of selling privileges.
High-volume sellers who completed 200+ sales and earned $5,000+ in gross revenue during any 12-month period in the past 24 months
The INFORM Consumers Act requires TikTok Shop to collect and verify seller identity information, and to publicly display seller contact details for high-volume sellers. If you meet the threshold, you'll need to submit verification documents annually and TikTok may share your information with customers on product listings.
Requirements
Verify seller information (bank account, contact info, Tax ID) at least once per year in the Qualification Center
Submit one acceptable document: Photo ID, IRS tax document, or business registration document
If your annual gross revenue is $20,000+, TikTok will display your physical address on product detail pages (with limited exceptions)
Screenshots of IRS websites, W-9 forms, and tax returns are not acceptable
Why it matters
Failure to comply can result in account suspension or removal from TikTok Shop, and missing the annual verification deadline could prevent you from continuing to sell.
Online marketplace sellers and platforms that facilitate third-party sales, including TikTok Shop sellers who list products for sale
The INFORM Consumers Act is a federal law that requires online marketplaces and sellers to provide clear, accurate information to buyers. The law aims to protect consumers from fraud and deceptive practices by ensuring that sellers disclose their identity and contact details, and that marketplaces verify seller information before allowing sales.
Requirements
Sellers must provide accurate business name, physical address, and contact information to the marketplace. Marketplaces must verify this information and make it available to buyers. High-volume sellers may face additional disclosure requirements. Sellers cannot use false or misleading information to register accounts.
Why it matters
Failure to comply with INFORM requirements can result in account suspension, listing removal, or legal action by the FTC. Providing false information violates federal law and can expose you to significant penalties.
TikTok Shop enforces policies through an Account Health Rating (AHR) system. When you violate policies or underperform, TikTok deducts points from your AHR and takes escalating enforcement actions at certain thresholds (150, 100, 50, and 0 points). You can appeal violations or fix issues within strict timelines, and successful appeals restore your privileges and removed points.
Requirements
Points are deducted from your Account Health Rating for policy violations or performance failures
Additional enforcement actions trigger when AHR drops to 150, 100, 50, and 0 points
You can appeal or correct violations within strict timelines
Monitor your Account Health Rating page regularly to track your status and appeal deadlines
Why it matters
Your shop can face escalating penalties including suspension or closure if your AHR hits 0, so timely appeals and correcting violations is essential to keep your business operating.
TikTok Shop enforces violations and performance issues by deducting points from your Account Health Rating (AHR). When your AHR hits 150, 100, 50, or 0 points, additional enforcement actions take place. You can appeal violations or fix problems within strict timelines, and if successful, TikTok will restore your points and any suspended privileges.
Requirements
AHR point deductions occur for policy violations or poor performance standards
Additional enforcement actions trigger at AHR thresholds of 150, 100, 50, and 0 points
You must appeal or correct violations within strict timelines
Successful appeals or corrections restore points and withdrawn privileges
Why it matters
Your Account Health Rating directly controls your shop's status—letting it drop can result in suspended selling privileges, so monitoring and appealing violations quickly is critical to keeping your shop active.
TikTok Shop applies enforcement actions when you violate policies or fail to meet performance standards. Your Account Health Rating (AHR) decreases with violations, and additional penalties trigger at specific AHR thresholds (150, 100, 50, and 0 points). You have limited time to appeal or correct violations before more severe action is taken.
Requirements
Enforcement actions include: warning messages, feature restrictions, listing removal, shop visibility reduction, order volume limits, and account suspension
Your AHR decreases when you violate policies or miss performance standards
Additional penalties apply automatically when AHR hits 150, 100, 50, or 0 points
You can appeal violations, but must do so within strict deadlines
If your shop is deactivated, linked creator accounts lose e-commerce permissions
Why it matters
Failing to monitor your Account Health Rating and missing appeal deadlines can result in permanent shop suspension, lost sales, and blocked creator account permissions.
TikTok Shop will take enforcement actions against your seller account when you violate policies or fail to meet performance standards. These actions scale in severity as your Account Health Rating (AHR) drops, with additional penalties triggered at 150, 100, 50, and 0 points. You can appeal violations within strict timelines, but you must monitor your Account Health Rating page regularly to take action.
Requirements
Account Health Rating points are deducted for policy violations or performance failures
Escalating enforcement actions apply when AHR drops to thresholds of 150, 100, 50, and 0 points
Possible enforcement actions include: warnings, feature restrictions, listing removal, shop visibility reduction, shipping limitations (90-365 days), order volume limits, and account suspension
If your shop is deactivated or OVL reaches 0, associated creator accounts' e-commerce permissions are simultaneously blocked
Appeals and corrections must be submitted within strict timelines to restore permissions
Why it matters
Enforcement actions directly impact your ability to sell, ship orders, and grow your business—inaction can lead to complete shop suspension and loss of selling privileges on linked creator accounts.
Who this applies to
TikTok Shop sellers, especially those with associated creator accounts (Official Accounts or Marketing Accounts)
TikTok can take enforcement actions against your seller account if you violate policies, including suspending your ability to withdraw funds, deducting from your account balance to cover losses, taking legal action, or reporting you to authorities. If your shop is deactivated or your Order Volume Limit drops to zero, any associated creator accounts you manage will also lose their e-commerce permissions automatically.
Requirements
TikTok may suspend fund withdrawals, deduct account balances, pursue legal action, or report you to authorities
Shop deactivation or Order Volume Limit reaching 0 automatically blocks e-commerce permissions on linked creator accounts
Shipping may be restricted for 90–365 days, and new orders can be suspended
Permissions are restored for both seller and creator accounts if the seller's permissions are reinstated
Why it matters
Account suspension can prevent you from operating your shop and earning, and it will also disable any creator accounts you've linked to your seller account, affecting multiple revenue streams.
TikTok Shop sellers, particularly those with associated creator accounts (Official Accounts or Marketing Accounts)
TikTok Shop can restrict your ability to ship orders, limit how many new orders you can accept, or suspend your shop entirely for up to a year if they suspect fraud, policy violations, or illegal activity. If your shop is deactivated, any creator accounts linked to your seller account will also lose their e-commerce permissions at the same time.
Requirements
Shipping can be restricted for 90–365 days
Order volume limits may be imposed, up to complete suspension of new orders
If your shop is deactivated or Order Volume Limit reaches 0, linked creator accounts lose e-commerce permissions simultaneously
Permissions are restored for both seller and creator accounts if the seller account is restored
Why it matters
Your shop suspension will immediately block your creator accounts from selling or earning through e-commerce features, affecting all monetization channels tied to your account.
TikTok Shop sellers with outstanding financial obligations or losses on their accounts
TikTok can withhold your account balance to cover costs and losses related to your seller account, including inventory removal, guarantee program payouts, unpaid fees, chargebacks, refunds, and any other financial losses you owe. This means money you've earned may be held back rather than paid out to settle these obligations.
Requirements
Balance can be withheld for inventory removal costs
Balance can be withheld for guarantee program obligations
Balance can be withheld for negative balances, fees, chargebacks, and refunds
Balance can be withheld for any other losses associated with your seller account
Why it matters
Understanding this policy prevents you from expecting full payouts when you have outstanding debts or obligations—TikTok will automatically offset your earnings against what you owe before sending payments.
TikTok can withhold funds from your seller account balance to cover costs and losses TikTok incurs related to your account activity. This includes inventory removal, guarantee program payouts, unpaid fees, chargebacks, refunds you owe, and any other financial losses caused by your selling.
Your seller earnings could be significantly reduced or your account balance could go negative, so you need to manage refunds, chargebacks, and order fulfillment carefully to avoid these deductions.
TikTok Shop sellers with account violations or enforcement actions, especially those with connected or related accounts
TikTok may hold you liable for financial obligations and losses tied to your account, including inventory removal, fees, chargebacks, and refunds. When you're banned, TikTok can also pursue accounts connected to yours—including those sharing contact info, payment methods, devices, or business resources—to recover what you owe.
Requirements
You remain liable for inventory removal costs, negative balances, chargebacks, and refunds
Connected accounts sharing your contact info, payment details, devices, or business resources may also be held responsible
TikTok may pursue recovery across all accounts linked to yours
Outstanding financial obligations persist even after account suspension or termination
Why it matters
If your account is suspended or terminated, TikTok can pursue other accounts you operate or control to collect owed money, which could affect all your selling operations on the platform.
TikTok Shop sellers with multiple accounts or accounts connected through shared contact information, payment methods, devices, operators, or business resources
TikTok Shop monitors and can take action against connected accounts (accounts linked to the same person, business, or resources). If one account violates policies, TikTok may hold connected accounts liable for remedying violations, including covering costs and settling outstanding financial obligations across all linked accounts.
Requirements
Connected accounts can be held jointly responsible for policy violations and financial obligations
You may be required to cover inventory removal costs, chargeback fees, refunds, and undelivered items across all connected accounts
TikTok tracks accounts linked by phone numbers, email addresses, payment methods, business operators, devices, or shared resources
Outstanding balances or losses from one connected account can be collected from all linked accounts
Why it matters
Running multiple accounts or sharing business resources across accounts puts you at financial risk—violations or unpaid charges on one account can impact all your connected accounts and your ability to sell.
You cannot collect, share, misuse, or hold onto customer personal information beyond what's needed to complete their purchase. This includes names, phone numbers, emails, addresses, social media handles, payment details, and any other identifying information. You must delete or anonymize buyer data promptly once the transaction and return/dispute period are closed.
Requirements
Do not redirect buyers off TikTok Shop or share your contact details to communicate outside the platform
Do not collect buyer PII unless TikTok Shop authorizes it for order fulfillment
Do not share, reuse, sell, or publicly post buyer information for any reason beyond fulfilling that specific order
Delete or anonymize all buyer PII without delay after the transaction and return window closes
Why it matters
Mishandling buyer data can result in account suspension, legal liability, and loss of seller privileges—buyers trust TikTok Shop to protect their personal information, and violations damage that trust.
All TikTok Shop sellers handling buyer information
TikTok Shop sellers must never collect, misuse, or share buyer personal information beyond what's needed to fulfill a specific order. You cannot redirect buyers to contact you outside TikTok, use their data for marketing, or keep their information after the transaction and return period ends.
Requirements
Do not collect or request buyer PII (names, phone numbers, emails, addresses, social handles, payment info) unless TikTok Shop authorizes it for fulfillment
Do not share buyer contact details in listings, messages, or packaging inserts to direct them off-platform
Do not use or disclose buyer PII for marketing, unauthorized third parties, or any purpose beyond fulfilling that specific transaction
Delete or anonymize all buyer PII without undue delay once the order and return/dispute window closes
Why it matters
Violations can result in account suspension, removal from the platform, and potential legal liability for breaching buyer privacy and trust.
All TikTok Shop sellers who receive an enforcement violation notice
You have limited chances to appeal enforcement violations, and you must act quickly. Each appeal has a strict deadline—first appeal within 30 days, second appeal within 15 days—and you get only two attempts total. For certain serious violations, you must appeal within 12 to 72 hours or lose the right to challenge the action.
Requirements
File first appeal within 30 days of violation notice; second appeal within 15 days
For immediate enforcement violations, file appeal within 12–72 hours (varies by violation type)
Collect and upload all supporting documentation yourself; you are solely responsible for evidence
You get only two appeals total; any decision after the second appeal is final
If appeal succeeds, TikTok will remove enforcement actions and restore withdrawn privileges
Why it matters
Missing appeal deadlines means you lose your only chance to overturn violations and restore your account privileges, so timing and preparation are critical to protecting your business.
Who this applies to
All TikTok Shop sellers
TikTok Shop has strict rules about how you can contact buyers and use their personal information. You cannot share buyer details (like phone numbers or email) to move them off the platform, ask for their personal information, or use their data for anything other than fulfilling their specific order.
Requirements
Do not share or redirect buyers to off-platform contact (phone, email, social handles, URLs) in any seller-to-buyer communication, listing, or packaging
Do not solicit buyer personal information through chat, listings, inserts, or post-purchase messages unless TikTok Shop authorizes it
Use buyer personal information only to fulfill the specific transaction it was provided for; do not contact buyers outside TikTok Shop or share it for other purposes
Why it matters
Violations can result in immediate enforcement actions including account suspension, and you have only 12-72 hours to appeal before the penalty takes effect.
Understanding these recovery options ensures you can regain access to your account if locked out and know how to challenge enforcement actions like bans or content removal.
