How to Unblock TikTok From Anywhere in 2024 – Easy Guide

ByteDance’s social media app TikTok screamed itself to the world when it hit a global status within a few days. But it soon attracted negative attention, too, mainly when the users started doing dangerous things with it.

Consequently, the authorities worldwide didn’t even hesitate to block the app altogether, thereby triggering the need for users like you to find out how to unblock TikTok. This article covers that. You can block and unblock users on this platform and see if someone has blocked you. We’ll cover that, too.

3 easy steps to unblock TikTok in 2024 (quick guide)

You may be in a hurry to start using TikTok immediately! Don’t worry; here’s a short guide for you.

Best VPNs to unblock TikTok – Quick list

A little about TikTok’s unsettled ties with authorities

TikTok is an entertainment app designed to create and share short videos with other users globally. It burst onto the scene when most countries imposed quarantine restrictions amidst the Coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic. There was a drastic surge in the number of downloads of the TikTok app, as it kept folks happy at home during difficult times. (Even though the app got used to spreading conspiracy theories and misinformation about the pandemic for a while.)

Unfortunately, despite being the only light source during those dark days, TikTok has not been appreciated enough. As a result, several countries, such as India, have banned/blocked the app nationwide.

The TikTok ban that started in India extended to several other countries, and now, a potential ban in the US is looming.

Then, in October 2020, a judge blocked the TikTok ban in the US.

Unsurprisingly, in November 2020, another US judge said he was unsure if he had enough legal basis to stop the US Commerce Department from deploying restrictions on the Beijing-based ByteDance Ltd’s TikTok.

Considering the known anti-China policies that the US boasts, the app can get banned at any time. And unfortunately, the US government does not seem to be giving up on its campaign against the China-based popular short-form video app.

There also have been similar calls in Australia in recent times. The Australian government decided not to ban the app in August 2020. But that does not guarantee they cannot change their mind in the future.

Then, on October 9, 2020, Pakistan banned TikTok. The authorities alleged that the app, boasting 43 million downloads in the country, featured ‘indecent’ and ‘immoral’ videos. However, the country lifted the TikTok ban after 11 days. But the threat persisted, and in July 2021, the government banned the app for the fourth time, blaming inappropriate content.

Undoubtedly, such bans are frustrating to millions of users in those countries, given that it has been a source of entertainment. Besides, most celebrities are using the app, which has also given birth to rising superstars.

But there’s good news.

Although TikTok has been banned in several countries, all the joy has not been lost yet! You can still use this social app from anywhere.

Freedom of accessing the internet is a human right, and there’s no better way of unblocking TikTok than using a VPN. It’s just a push of a button away. Once you have a VPN up and running on your device, you’ll forget about any TikTok bans!

Why must I use a VPN to bypass TikTok bans?

Any app’s ban depends on the user’s IP address, determining its location. Therefore, if your IP address belongs to a country that has banned TikTok, you can’t operate or even download the app.

Thus, when you try to access TikTok, you’ll only get an error message, or your screen will start buffering without loading any videos. That’s where a VPN comes in handy.

A VPN tricks TikTok by changing your IP address to another country that has not banned the app. When you are connected to a VPN, your ISP and telecom authority (through which governments mostly block sites and apps) cannot see you using the blocked app. (And hence, they cannot stop you from accessing the website or app you wish to use.)

That way, a VPN will allow you to bypass the TikTok ban and start using your favorite app from anywhere globally.

Besides, a VPN will help you protect your privacy, security, and anonymity online. Moreover, if that still hasn’t caught your interest, know that a VPN can help you unblock TikTok and content on various streaming services, such as Hulu, Netflix, or Amazon Prime Video.

With that in mind, you only need to sign up for a quality VPN and connect to a server from a country that has not banned TikTok. Once done, you can enjoy your favorite video-sharing platform like you never missed it.

Quick comparison table: TikTok VPN features

Top 3 VPNs for TikTok in 2024

Now that you know how a VPN benefits you to access TikTok anywhere, the million-dollar question is, what is the best TikTok VPN to use in a banned location?

Let alone pick a VPN to unblock the TikTok app in your region; choosing the right VPN for any purpose is challenging.

That’s because various VPN users have preferences about a given VPN and may not find all they’re looking for in a single VPN provider.

But there is a way to ensure you sign up with the right provider. It is weighing your preferred provider per specific characteristics that make a VPN the best. A worthy VPN service should have at least the following;

• It should have an array of servers in several different locations.
• Also, the VPN should offer fast servers. You don’t want to wait several minutes to access the TikTok app homepage. Usually, users with slow VPN speeds face playback issues when using TikTok.
• The VPN should have high-quality security features like zero logs, a kill switch, and robust encryption protocols.
• It should also have DNS leak protection, ensuring the ISP does not resolve the DNS requests.
• It should support several platforms to help you unblock and use TikTok on any smartphone.

Keeping the above criteria in mind, we tested more than 15 VPNs that claim to get past the TikTok ban from anywhere without compromising speed and security. Based on our thorough tests and research, below are the top-rated 3 VPNs for TikTok:

1. ExpressVPN

Has proved to be the customer’s choice when it comes to fulfilling privacy needs. Also, its servers from 94 countries will surely get you an IP address that supports TikTok.

Visit ExpressVPN

3,000+ servers spread in over 105 countries

AES-256-bit encryption

DNS/IPv6 leak protection

P2P servers

Network Lock feature

TrustedServer technology

Split tunneling

Zero-logs policy

Allows up to 5 devices simultaneously

30-day money back guarantee

Pros

• Fast speeds across all locations
• Stealthy security
• Unblocks TikTok where it is banned

Cons

• Relatively costly subscription plans

The VPN has over 3,000 servers spread in over 105 countries worldwide. Therefore, as a TikTok user, you almost have indefinite options to choose from with this provider.

Moreover, it’s the best VPN for unblocking primary streaming services like Netflix. If it can unblock such a giant who continuously looks to block VPNs, imagine how effortlessly it can allow you to access TikTok.

Also, ExpressVPN offers advanced security features, such as a kill switch, DNS leak protection, a no-logs policy, and split tunneling. Speed is also a significant factor with TikTok, where ExpressVPN shines as it’s among the fastest VPNs available today.

Furthermore, it allows up to five simultaneous connections in one account, meaning a maximum of five people can unblock their TikTok apps using one subscription.

Interestingly, if the service doesn’t meet your expectations, you have a tested no-questions-asked option out. You can ask for your money back within 30 days of subscription. We tested that from multiple accounts; ExpressVPN’s money-back guarantee works.

If you want to continue enjoying your entertainment with TikTok, there’s no better way to do it than to sign up with ExpressVPN. Read our in-depth ExpressVPN review.

2. NordVPN

Top VPN to browse TikTok without risking your data. It also features server obfuscation to hide your traffic, hence working great to unblock TikTok in repressive regions.

Visit NordVPN

6,000+ servers in over 60 countries

Supports P2P sharing

AES-256-bit encryption

Zero-logs policy

Automatic kill switch

Double VPN

DNS/IPv6 leak protection

6 connections simultaneously

30 days money-back guarantee

Pros

• Browse TikTok
• Strong encryption standards
• Decent customer support

Cons

• Double VPN feature will slow your connection 

You don’t have to put your data at risk when browsing TikTok. With NordVPN, you can be sure that your data remains secure.

NordVPN has over 6,000 servers in 60 countries, with most accessing TikTok. Therefore, you can rest assured to get an option to connect to and start enjoying TikTok wherever you are.

Also, you’ll be amazed by NordVPN’s military-grade encryption. It hides all your information online, while its strict zero-logs policy ensures that none of your data gets stored. Moreover, it features a kill switch that stops data transfer if your connection drops.

Regarding speed, NordVPN is arguably your go-to VPN, as it offers blazing-fast speeds. Video apps like TikTok require a lot of speed, which you can find within NordVPN services. Moreover, it applies a Double VPN that reroutes your traffic via several servers, doubling the encryption.

You can use NordVPN on six different devices with one subscription.

If you feel content enough to try NordVPN services, you can enjoy the 30-day money-back guarantee the provider offers.

Like ExpressVPN, NordVPN does not only help you escape TikTok blockage. But it also supports Likee, Reddit, Netflix, Hotstar, Kwai, 8chan, and many more services. Moreover, it works on several platforms like Linux, Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Firefox, and Chromebook.

Read the detailed review of NordVPN.

3. CyberGhost

Another VPN that helps you use TikTok no matter wherever you are by offering thousands of servers from over 90 countries.

Visit CyberGhost

9000+ servers in 91 countries

AES-256-bit encryption

Wi-Fi protection

Zero-logs policy

P2P support

Split tunneling

Allows up to 7 connections simultaneously

45-day money-back guarantee

Pros

• Unblocks TikTok
• Minimal configuration
• Generous money-back guarantee

Cons

• Only 24 hours of the free trial

CyberGhost is another VPN with over 9000 servers in 91 countries that helps you use TikTok regardless of location. Over 4500 of its servers worldwide work with TikTok. Therefore, you will surely get a fake country IP address from a region that has allowed TikTok to enjoy using it seamlessly.

It features military-grade encryption that ensures you’re secure online. Its other features, such as a kill switch, ensure you securely do your TikTok activities (including recording and posting videos).

With only one subscription, the provider lets you connect up to seven devices simultaneously. In addition, it supports multiple operating systems and platforms like Windows, Android, iOS, Chromebook, macOS, and Linux.

It offers excellent 24/7 support, and you can get a completely free trial for one day without adding any credit card or other payment method. CyberGhost offers up to 45 days, no questions asked, money-back guarantee. We returned our money in 3-5 business days after requesting a refund.

Methodology for choosing the best TikTok VPNs

The suitability of a VPN for TikTok can vary. Some are not capable of streaming HD video at a sufficient speed, while others cannot unblock the platform in countries where it is restricted. Therefore, we applied a strict set of essential standards to compile the most suitable Tiktok VPNs.

1. Price: We will never endorse a VPN service overcharging for its features. Additionally, we provide information regarding available discounts, promotions, or refund policies to ensure you get value for your money and never have to pay more than necessary.
2. Usability: Our priority is to suggest VPNs that are user-friendly enough for beginners, with user-friendly applications for a variety of platforms. This entails seeking VPNs with one-click connections, reliable customer support, and, ideally, a simple method for circumventing country-wide blocking.
3. Privacy and security: Since VPNs are mainly utilized for digital privacy, we exclusively suggest those that feature a no-logs policy, leak protection, a kill switch, and AES 256-bit encryption. Of course, additional advanced capabilities, such as an anti-censorship mode, are welcomed.
4. Unblocking abilities: Sometimes, you may want to watch alternative content. Our global team evaluated the VPNs listed above by testing their compatibility with superior services like Hulu, HBO Max, Netflix, and Disney+  to assess their ability to bypass stringent regional restrictions.
5. Reliability and speed: Due to the brevity of TikTok videos, extremely high internet speeds are unnecessary. Nevertheless, reliable performance is crucial for uninterrupted playback, so we exclusively recommend VPNs with dependable speed.
6. Server network size: Having access to more servers is advantageous. This is because closer servers reduce latency, resulting in superior performance overall. Additionally, extensive server networks typically equate to more consistent speeds during peak usage.

How to access TikTok with a VPN?

Since TikTok is unavailable in certain countries, you need a VPN to download and use the app. Here is how to do it:

1. Download and configure a VPN that is compatible with TikTok. We recommend NordVPN as it has an extensive network of fast-speed servers. 
2. Open the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. 
3. Find TikTok and download it. 
4. Create an account and enjoy your favorite content. 

If you cannot find Tiktok with a VPN, you need to change your location in the settings as we’ve shown you above.

What else can I do with a premium VPN?

A premium VPN service offers several additional benefits besides unblocking TikTok.

Firstly, with a premium VPN, you can watch movies and shows while traveling outside of your country of residence. This is possible with any VPN service listed above, enabling you to access your Netflix account and other streaming platforms securely.

Moreover, using a VPN when accessing your online banking information ensures the safety of your sensitive financial data, such as your account and credit card numbers. This is because VPNs encrypt your data to prevent it from being intercepted by hackers or other third parties. Additionally, you can download torrents anonymously with a top VPN that offers military-grade encryption. By encrypting your traffic, a VPN helps you to keep your identity secure while using torrenting sites. However, you should ensure that the content you download is not copyrighted to avoid legal issues.

Why you should not access TikTok with a free VPN

Several free VPNs claim to unblock TikTok. But you must not fall into their trap. A free VPN usually has slow servers, weak security, and numerous privacy policies that will only expose your data to third parties for revenue purposes.

Moreover, chances are you will also be bombarded with pop-ups. Most do it all day to earn maximum money, which exposes your device to trackers and malvertising.

You definitely wouldn’t be comfortable with hackers or even the Chinese government accessing your data, would you? Therefore, you better pay for the best VPN, such as ExpressVPN, for your TikTok account and personal information security.

What should I do if my VPN fails to unblock TikTok?

Sometimes, you might have difficulties bypassing the TikTok block, even with a VPN.

Don’t worry since you can quickly fix this glitch. But first, you must ensure that you’re using the best VPN that can bypass the TikTok ban efficiently, such as ExpressVPN.

Then go ahead and try the following:

• Clear cache. Head to your browser’s history (available in Settings) and clear all the cached data and cookies. Reconnect to your VPN server and refresh your page (the best thing to do is restart your browser).
• Try another server. You might have connected to the wrong server. Switch to a different country server where you know TikTok is not banned or blocked; it should fix the problem. Remember, all the TikTok VPNs listed in the article have numerous servers worldwide, so you can keep switching to another server in a different country until you can access TikTok videos.
• Reach out to your VPN service’s customer support. If you cannot figure out which servers work with TikTok, you can get a customer service representative of your VPN provider to help. All the providers we listed in this article offer 24/7 email, phone, and live chat support.

Where has TikTok been banned?

More and more countries are restricting TikTok usage either temporarily or permanently. Here is a comprehensive list of countries where TikTok is banned or restricted partially.

Why do countries keep blocking TikTok?

Several countries, such as India and Pakistan, have already banned TikTok. The US is also in contention to ban the video-sharing app.

But the million-dollar question is, why are the countries banning TikTok?

Everyone has their own reasons. For instance, according to India’s Economic Times, India cited TikTok as a national security concern. Similarly, the US mainly wants to ban TikTok because of its data mining concern.

Pakistan has banned the app for not filtering indecent and immoral content, while Bangladesh briefly blocked TikTok, blaming some videos the government found offensive.

Nonetheless, no matter why governments keep blocking the TikTok app, you already know how to unblock it.

Can’t Download TikTok? Here’s What to Do!

In some countries, the TikTok app is unavailable on the app store. In fact, governments in these countries compel internet service providers (ISPs) to block social media platform downloads. 

Thankfully, there are several ways you can access TikTok in countries where it is banned. Here are the most common methods:

How to download TikTok on iOS devices  

Downloading TikTok on iOS devices is relatively easy as you only need to make a few changes on the App Store. Use the following steps to unblock TikTok at any location. 

1. Visit the App Store and click your profile picture on the right corner of your screen. 
2. Input your name and email address in the account settings. 
3. Select ‘Country/Region’ and click the ‘Change Country or Region’ button. 
4. Navigate to the country where TikTok is available without restrictions. 
5. Click ‘Agree’ for the terms and conditions. 
6. Tap on ‘None’ in the payment method tab and enter an email address in the billing address section.
7. Click ‘Next’, then ‘Done’. 

TikTok will now be available in the App Store. Install it and start enjoying your favorite content.  

How to download TikTok on Android 

Google has blocked hardware IDs for Android operating systems in certain countries. So, to download and install TikTok on your Android device, you must factory reset it to wipe your hardware ID.

Then, download the official APK (Android Package Kit) file online. 

Note: Ensure you have a backup, as factory reset deletes all data and settings on your phone. 

1. Open ‘Settings > Security’ and navigate to ‘Install apps from external sources’ option. 
2. Click on the browser you are using, i.e., Google Chrome. 
3. Toggle the switch on ‘Allow app installs.’ 
4. Search for ‘TikTok APK’ on your browser. Some reliable sources with the TikTok APK file include AndroidAPKsBox and Apkpure. 
5. After downloading the file, open it and follow the instructions to install it. 

Note: Always download the APK files from reputable sources to avoid falling prey to malicious actors. Also, remember that the drawback of using an APK file is that you’ll need to replace the current one in case of an update.

How do I get TikTok and other Chinese apps if they aren’t on the App Store?

It’s very likely that the ban might have caught you unaware, and you didn’t have TikTok or any other Chinese apps installed already. Even worse, you cannot access them from Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

No need to stress too much, though. You can still access them. However, the only way to install TikTok or any other app not available on the App Store is via a third-party app repository, such as APKPure or F-Droid.

However, you must remain very careful when downloading those apps from third-party sites as this might give away your data or even they might cause various security problems to your Android or other devices.

How to block/unblock anyone on TikTok

As an active TikTok user, you might want to keep your profile private, especially when you don’t want people to ruin your profile with malicious comments or meddle with your activities.

Blocking known surveillance accounts may also help you use the app peacefully without drawing attention. For instance, you can block your boss’ profile or the IT personnel’s accounts to hide your TikTok activities even when using the app in the office. (But ensure you do nothing awkward or unsuitable for the corporate environment. Also, blocking someone on TikTok won’t hide you from government surveillance unless you use a VPN.)

So, in short, you may have numerous reasons to block people on TikTok. Of course, this is understandable, even for the vendors. That’s why they also offer dedicated options to block such annoying accounts.

How to block anyone on your TikTok account

1. Look for the account you want to block via your TikTok app search option to get that person’s profile. You can also directly tap on the profile from the comments, messages, or any other option where that profile appears.
2. Open that user’s profile and tap the menu option on the top-right (visible as three dots or bars).
3. From the list appearing next, tap on the “Block” option. Proceed to confirm blocking that account when prompted.

Once done, that annoying account will never appear on your account again. That’s because TikTok hides the videos, comments, and even the profiles of you and the other account from each other.

But what if you ever want to unblock someone on TikTok you blocked earlier? While such an option also exists, it’s tricky as you can’t view or access the blocked profile.

Steps to unblock a blocked account on TikTok

1. On your TikTok app, go to your profile.
2. Now tap on the menu option (three bars) on the top-right of your screen.
3. Go to the “Settings and Privacy” menu and select “Privacy.”
4. Scroll down to find the “Block accounts” option and tap on it.
5. You can now see the list of all accounts you have blocked on your profile. Tap on the one you wish to unblock, then tap the “Unblock” option.

And that’s it; you have now successfully unblocked the TikTok account on your profile. Now you can view profiles, comment, or message each other as usual.

Is TikTok Safe?

Certain governments have raised concerns that TikTok may pose a security risk. However, TikTok has refuted these allegations. The primary concern of the governments contemplating or implementing a national ban on TikTok is that a Chinese company owns the application. So, they contend that TikTok collects a significant amount of personal data from users and that there is a risk of this information being transmitted to the Chinese government.

In this table, we’re going to look at some of the allegations made against TikTok and truths according to TikTok policy:

It has not been substantiated yet if TikTok poses a severe national security risk. However, it’s known that the app has nearly unrestricted access to sensitive user data, including private communications, preferences, and location. It remains uncertain where this information is stored and to whom it is transmitted.

Conclusion

All is not yet lost. There’s no denying that TikTok can sometimes bring unmatched joy, and you don’t have to miss such entertainment simply because the app has been banned in your country. The good news is that you can still access TikTok, but only with the best VPN.

The most reliable VPN that can help you unblock TikTok from anywhere in 2024 is ExpressVPN. It does not only help you get around TikTok’s geo-restrictions but also will allow you to access several other censored sites, such as Netflix. Moreover, you’ll be assured of your internet security all the time. Happy TikToking!

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