TikTok Shadowban: What it is and how to avoid it

TikTok has quickly become one of the most popular social media platforms in the world, with millions of users sharing short, creative videos every day. However, along with its growing popularity, concerns have arisen about practices like “shadowbanning” that can affect the visibility and reach of content creators. In this article, we’ll explore what exactly “shadowbanning” on TikTok is, why it occurs, and how content creators can avoid falling victim to it.

What is TikTok Shadowban?

The term “shadowban” refers to a practice where a social media platform deliberately reduces the visibility of a user’s content, making it less discoverable or accessible to other users. In the context of TikTok, shadowban implies that a user’s videos are no longer shown in their followers’ feeds and on Explore Pages, resulting in a significant decrease in the reach and exposure of the content.

Why does Shadowban occur?

The reasons why a shadowban can occur on TikTok can be varied and are not always transparent. Some of the possible reasons include:

1. Violation of Guidelines: TikTok has clear guidelines that users must follow when creating and sharing content. If a user repeatedly violates these guidelines, TikTok’s algorithm may penalize them, decreasing their reach.
2. Use of Prohibited or Irrelevant Hashtags: Using banned, irrelevant, or excessive hashtags can lead to a shadowban. TikTok may interpret this as spam or an attempt to manipulate the algorithm.
3. Suspicious Behavior: Suspicious activity, such as mass following and unfollowing, excessive liking, or rapid commenting on many videos, can be interpreted as robotic or inauthentic behavior.
4. User Complaints: If too many users report a creator's content for violations or issues, TikTok may temporarily restrict that creator's visibility to investigate the complaints.

How to Avoid TikTok Shadowban?

Avoiding a shadowban on TikTok requires a commitment to good practices and authenticity. Here are some tips to help creators avoid this unfortunate situation:

1. Follow the Guidelines: Make sure you are aware of TikTok’s community guidelines and follow them strictly. This includes avoiding offensive, violent, sensationalist, or misleading content.
2. Use Relevant Hashtags: Use hashtags that are directly related to your content. Avoid prohibited hashtags and don't use too many hashtags in a single video.
3. Avoid Suspicious Behavior: Maintain authentic user behavior. Avoid automated mass actions like following and liking that can come across as robotic.
4. Diversify your Content: Don’t share the same type of content over and over again. Diversify your videos to keep your followers interested.
5. Interact with Authenticity: Respond to comments in a genuine and constructive manner. This shows TikTok that you are engaged with your audience.
6. Avoid Mass Reporting: Avoid creating content that could generate a lot of complaints. This includes avoiding unnecessary controversy and respecting diversity of opinions.
7. Monitor your Performance: Keep an eye on your videos’ performance. If you notice a drastic drop in reach, it could be a sign of a shadowban.

Conclusion

TikTok Shadowban can be a challenge for creators, reducing their visibility and impact. However, by following best practices, adhering to the platform’s guidelines, and maintaining an authentic approach, creators can minimize their chances of falling victim to this situation. Transparency and consistency are key to building a healthy and successful TikTok presence.