TikTok may be banned from U.S. app stores, but that hasn’t stopped millions of users from finding ways to keep scrolling. Thanks to a recent policy shift, TikTok now officially supports direct APK downloads for Android users—offering a secure and reliable way to get the app without relying on Google Play.
Whether you’re trying to reinstall TikTok or sideload it for the first time, here’s everything you need to know in 2025—including important legal context, installation instructions, and what iPhone users can do.
Official APK Instructions from TikTok
As of 2025, TikTok provides a legitimate APK download directly through its website:
- Go to tiktok.com/download using your Android browser
- Tap “Download APK”
- You’ll be prompted to enable installs from unknown sources (usually found in your phone’s Security or Privacy settings)
- Proceed with the install, and TikTok will appear like any other app
TikTok stresses that this method ensures you’re getting the most recent, secure version of the app, with updates pushed from their servers. Once the legal situation is resolved, the app is expected to return to Google Play.
Why This Matters: The U.S. TikTok Ban
In early 2025, new U.S. legislation forced app stores to remove TikTok, citing national security concerns related to data sharing with ByteDance, its China-based parent company. The law gave ByteDance a strict deadline to divest TikTok’s U.S. operations—or face a nationwide ban.
As a result:
- TikTok was pulled from both the Google Play Store and Apple App Store in January 2025.
- Android users now must use APK sideloading to reinstall the app.
- Apple users are left without a clear workaround unless they already had the app or use alternative methods (more on that below).
Community Workarounds and Trusted Sources
Reddit’s r/TikTokHelp community has been buzzing with tips and warnings:
“Download directly from TikTok’s site—don’t risk shady mirrors.”
“APKMirror and Uptodown are solid backup sources, but double-check the version number.”
While TikTok’s website is the best and safest source, users also suggest APKMirror and Uptodown for those who want redundancy—but never trust unofficial or unverified sources. Malicious clones are rampant right now, some of which include spyware or adware.
🛡️ Tip: Always scan downloaded APKs with antivirus tools before installing, even from reputable sources.
Video Tutorials & Walkthroughs
There are several updated YouTube tutorials that guide users step-by-step through the APK installation process. These videos cover:
- Downloading TikTok’s APK file
- Enabling unknown source installs in Android settings
- Installing and verifying the app’s legitimacy
- Setting auto-updates via APK-based app managers (like APKUpdater)
Many also show how to preserve your login and data when switching from a Google Play version to an APK version.
What About iPhone Users?
Unfortunately, the situation is much trickier for iOS users:
- TikTok is no longer available in the U.S. App Store
- If you deleted it after the ban, you can’t reinstall it unless you had it in your purchase history before
- Some users report limited success with:
- Using a foreign Apple ID tied to countries where TikTok is still available
- Installing via AltStore or third-party iOS tools, though these require sideloading infrastructure and developer accounts
- Using TikTok through Safari or mobile browsers, which allows watching and interacting (with limited features)
📌 Important: Apple’s ecosystem is locked down—there’s no safe or supported way to install iOS apps outside the App Store unless jailbroken, which carries security risks.
What To Do Now (Quick Summary)
If you’re on Android:
- Use tiktok.com/download
- Enable “Install from unknown sources” in Settings → Privacy/Security
- Install the APK and log in as usual
- Consider backing up the APK or using APKMirror as a backup source
If you’re on iOS:
- Avoid shady sideloading options or jailbreaking
- Use the web version for now
- If you previously had TikTok, check your App Store purchase history—you might be able to re-download it
⚠️ Stay Safe: Final Security Reminders
- Never trust TikTok APKs from third-party ads or unknown websites
- Avoid “modded” APKs claiming to unlock features—they’re almost always malicious
- Keep your version updated manually or use a trusted APK update manager
- Be wary of fake iOS workarounds that ask for personal info or Apple ID credentials
TikTok may be fighting its biggest battle yet in the U.S., but for Android users willing to sideload, the experience can continue uninterrupted. Just stick with official sources and play it smart.
How to Delete a TikTok Account
Thinking about deleting your TikTok account? You’re not alone. Many users are looking to step away from the popular video-sharing platform for various reasons, from privacy concerns to simply needing a digital detox. The process is straightforward but requires knowing exactly where to look in the app’s settings.
To delete your TikTok account, open the app, tap your Profile, then the Menu (☰) button, select Settings and privacy, and navigate to the Account section where you’ll find the delete account option. Before proceeding, it’s worth noting that TikTok implements a 30-day deactivation period before permanent deletion, giving you time to reconsider your decision should you change your mind.
Taking this step means losing access to your videos, followers, and personal data associated with your account. For those serious about removing their digital footprint from TikTok, understanding the full deletion process ensures you can make an informed decision about your social media presence.
Deleting your TikTok account is a multi-step process that includes a 30-day deactivation period before permanent deletion. Here’s how to do it using the TikTok mobile app:
Before you begin:
- Consider downloading your data: If you want to keep a copy of your videos, comments, and other account data, you can request a download before deleting.
- Go to your Profile > three horizontal lines (Menu) > Settings and privacy > Account > Download your data.
- Choose your preferred format and tap “Request data.” It may take up to 3 days to generate the file. Once ready, you’ll find it in the same section.
- Understand the 30-day deactivation period: Your account will be deactivated for 30 days first. During this time:
- Your profile and content will not be visible to others.
- You can reactivate your account by simply logging back in.
- If you do not log in within 30 days, your account will be permanently deleted, and all your data will be gone forever.
Steps to Delete Your TikTok Account:
- Open the TikTok app on your mobile device.
- Go to your Profile: Tap the “Profile” icon (person icon) in the bottom-right corner.
- Access the Menu: Tap the three horizontal lines (☰) in the top-right corner of your profile page.
- Go to Settings and privacy: From the menu that appears, tap “Settings and privacy.”
- Select Account: In the “Settings and privacy” menu, tap “Account.”
- Choose Deactivate or delete account: Tap this option.
- Select Delete account permanently: You’ll be given the choice to deactivate temporarily or delete permanently. Choose the latter.
- Follow the prompts: TikTok may ask you for a reason for leaving, or to confirm your decision. You might also be asked to verify your account (e.g., by entering your password or a verification code sent to your associated email/phone number).
- Confirm deletion: Tap “Delete account” and then “Delete” again to finalize the process.
Once you complete these steps, your TikTok account will be deactivated, and the 30-day countdown to permanent deletion will begin.
Key Takeaways
- Deleting a TikTok account requires navigating through Profile, Menu, Settings and privacy, and Account sections in the app.
- TikTok implements a 30-day deactivation period before permanent account deletion.
- Account deletion results in the loss of all content, followers, and personal data associated with your TikTok profile.
Understanding the Account Deletion Process
Deleting a TikTok account involves a specific process with important considerations about timing and account recovery. Users need to understand that deletion becomes permanent after 30 days and requires following specific steps through the app’s privacy settings.
Prerequisites for Deleting a TikTok Account
Before deleting a TikTok account, users must ensure they have access to the email address or phone number linked to their account. This information is crucial for verification purposes during the deletion process.
Users should also download any content they wish to keep, as all videos, comments, and messages will be permanently removed after the 30-day grace period. The account must be in good standing without any pending violations or restrictions that might prevent deletion.
It’s recommended to unlink any third-party applications or services connected to the TikTok account before beginning the deletion process. This helps prevent potential issues during deletion and ensures a cleaner break from the platform.
Step-by-Step Guide to Deleting Your Account
Open the TikTok app and navigate to the profile page by tapping the “Profile” icon at the bottom right corner.
Access Settings by tapping the menu button (three lines or three dots) in the top right corner.
Navigate to account settings by selecting “Settings and privacy” from the menu.
Find account management options by scrolling down and selecting “Account” or “Manage account” depending on your app version.
Select “Delete account” from the available options.
Review information about what happens when you delete your account.
Select reason for deletion from the provided options.
Confirm deletion by tapping “Delete Account” and then “Delete” in the confirmation pop-up.
The account enters a 30-day deactivation period. During this time, the account is hidden but not permanently deleted.
Email Verification and Account Security
Email verification plays a crucial role in the TikTok account deletion process. This security measure ensures that only the legitimate account owner can delete the account. TikTok sends a verification code to the registered email address that must be entered to proceed with deletion.
Users who cannot access their email may need to recover it before deleting their TikTok account. This highlights the importance of keeping contact information updated.
For additional security, TikTok may require two-factor authentication before allowing account deletion. This protects against unauthorized deletion attempts and account hijacking.
TikTok notifies users via email when the deletion process begins and again when it completes after the 30-day grace period. These notifications serve as important timestamps for the deletion process.
Considerations Before Account Deletion
Deleting a TikTok account is a significant decision that requires careful thought. Users should weigh several factors before permanently removing their presence from this popular short-form video platform.
Impact on Social Media Presence and Followers
Permanently deleting a TikTok account means losing all followers and connections built over time. For users who have developed a substantial following, this represents a loss of social capital that can’t be recovered if they later decide to return to the platform.
Content creators might want to consider how this decision affects their overall social media strategy. Videos that may have taken hours to create and promote will disappear completely, along with any associated comments, likes, and shares.
Many users find that TikTok has become integrated into their social identity. Deleting an account might affect relationships built through the platform or opportunities that came through TikTok visibility.
For those considering a social media detox, temporary alternatives exist that don’t require permanent deletion.
Data Retention and Cookie Policy
Even after account deletion, TikTok may retain certain information according to their data policies. The platform’s cookie policy allows them to keep some user data for legal, security, and business purposes.
Users should download their data before deletion if they want to preserve their content. This can be done through the app’s settings menu.
Some information might remain in TikTok’s systems for up to 30 days after deletion, while anonymized data could be kept for longer periods for analytics purposes.
Third-party cookies previously collected while using TikTok may continue tracking user behavior on other websites, even after account deletion.
For privacy-conscious users, it’s worth reviewing TikTok’s complete privacy policy to understand exactly what happens to their data after account deletion.
Alternatives to Account Deletion
For those troubled by compulsive scrolling but hesitant about permanent deletion, TikTok offers less drastic options. The platform includes screen time management tools that can help limit daily usage.
Account deactivation is a temporary alternative that hides a profile but allows for reactivation. This option lets users take a break without losing their followers, content, or account history.
Adjusting privacy settings can help users gain more control over their TikTok experience. Options include switching to a private account or limiting who can interact with content.
Content filters can be modified to curate a more positive feed experience. Users can indicate they’re “not interested” in certain types of content to reshape what appears in their For You Page.
Many find that simply deleting the app from their device (without account deletion) provides enough distance from endless scrolling while preserving their account.
Frequently Asked Questions
TikTok users often have specific questions about account deletion. Below are answers to some of the most common concerns about permanently removing TikTok accounts.
What is the process for permanently deleting a TikTok account?
To permanently delete a TikTok account, users need to open the app and tap on the Profile icon at the bottom of the screen. Next, they should tap the Menu button (three lines) in the top right corner, then select “Settings and privacy.”
From there, they need to tap “Account” and scroll down to find “Deactivate or delete account.” After selecting “Delete account permanently,” the app will provide several on-screen prompts to confirm the deletion.
Once confirmed, the account enters a 30-day deactivation period before being permanently deleted.
Is it possible to delete a TikTok account from a mobile device?
Yes, TikTok accounts can be deleted directly from mobile devices. In fact, this is the most common method since TikTok is primarily a mobile app.
The deletion process works on both iOS and Android devices through the TikTok app. Users simply need to navigate through their profile settings as described in the previous section.
How can I delete my TikTok account if I’ve forgotten my password or email?
Users who have forgotten their password should first attempt to reset it by tapping “Forgot password” on the login screen. TikTok will send a verification code to the linked phone number or email address.
If access to the linked email is unavailable, contacting TikTok support directly may be necessary. Users can submit a support request through the TikTok website explaining the situation.
Having account information like username, phone number, and previous verification methods ready will help verify ownership.
What steps should be taken to remove a TikTok account without logging in?
Removing a TikTok account without being able to log in presents challenges. The most effective approach is to recover access to the account first.
Users can try to reset their password using the “Forgot password” option on the login screen. If this fails, contacting TikTok support directly is necessary.
For security reasons, TikTok requires verification of account ownership before processing deletion requests from users who cannot log in.
Can a TikTok account be deleted immediately without having to wait 30 days?
No, TikTok implements a mandatory 30-day deactivation period for all account deletions. During this time, the account remains invisible to other users but is not yet permanently deleted.
This grace period allows users to change their minds and reactivate their accounts if desired. To reactivate, users simply need to log back in within the 30-day window.
After the 30-day period expires, the account and its data are permanently removed from TikTok’s servers.
What are common reasons TikTok may not allow a user to delete their account?
TikTok might prevent account deletion if there are unresolved issues with the account. These can include ongoing investigations into community guideline violations or account verification problems.
Accounts linked to active subscriptions or purchases may require canceling those services first. Users with TikTok Creator Fund accounts might need to withdraw remaining funds before deletion is permitted.
Age-restricted accounts (for users under 18) may require parental verification before deletion can proceed.
