Suppose you’ve noticed that your TikTok account is private and you’re unsure why, you’re not alone. TikTok’s privacy settings can sometimes be confusing, especially if they change unexpectedly. So, what does it mean when your TikTok account is private, and why might it happen without you knowing? Let’s explore some of the possible reasons and how you can switch back to a public account if that’s what you prefer.
What Does It Mean When Your TikTok Account Is Private?
When your TikTok account is private, it means that only people who follow you can see your videos and engage with your content. New users will have to send you a follow request, which you can approve or deny. This is different from public accounts, where anyone can view, like, and comment on your videos without needing your permission.
Reasons Why Your TikTok Account May Be Private
There are several reasons why your TikTok account may have been set to private, either intentionally or by default. Let’s look at some of the most common scenarios.
You’re Under 16 Years Old
TikTok has privacy measures in place to protect younger users. If you’re under 16 years old, TikTok automatically sets your account to private. This ensures that only approved followers can see your videos and keeps you from receiving unwanted attention or messages from strangers.
Can You Change It?
If you’re under 16, you won’t be able to change your account to public until you reach the age of 16. If TikTok’s way of prioritizing safety for younger users.
You Changed It to Private by Accident
Sometimes, users change their privacy settings accidentally without realizing it. If you’ve been tinkering with your account settings or recently updated the app, there’s a chance that you might have switched your account to private by mistake.
How to Fix It
- Go to your profile by tapping the profile icon in the bottom right corner.
- Tap the three lines in the top-right corner to access your settings.
- Go to Privacy and toggle off the option that says “Private Account.”
Once you switch the toggle off, your account will go back to public.
TikTok’s Default Settings
In some cases, TikTok might set your account to private based on default privacy settings for new users. This is especially true if you signed up for TikTok recently or created an account without going through all the customization steps.
How to Fix It
As mentioned earlier, simply go to your Privacy Settings and switch the toggle from Private to Public if you want everyone to be able to view your content.
Closing Thoughts
The bottom line is that there are several reasons that your TikTok profile may be private. By troubleshooting the answer, you can figure out if it’s possible to change it and make it public.
