Upcoming TikTok guideline changes: What creators and commenters need to know

TikTok Guidelines Updates Are Coming: What It Means for Creators and Commenters

TikTok, the popular video app, is making changes to its rules to help keep the platform safe and fun for everyone. Starting on September 13, new Community Guidelines will go into effect. These updates will affect how creators share videos and how commenters interact.

What Are the Changes?

TikTok wants its rules to be clearer and easier to understand. So, each policy now has a short summary at the top. The updates include new rules about false information, gambling, alcohol, drugs, guns, and other weapons. These rules will be combined into one main policy to make them simpler.

Updates to Safety and Content Rules

The sections on safety and respect have been changed slightly. TikTok now emphasizes that it wants the platform to be a place that is “safe, fun, and creative” for everyone. The part about trustworthiness has been removed, meaning TikTok is focusing more on safety and respect.

Misinformation and Sensitive Topics

TikTok still talks about misinformation in its guidelines. For example, posts sharing unverified information about emergencies or major events like elections are discouraged. The wording has been updated slightly, but the main message remains the same—to prevent false information from spreading.

How TikTok Manages Features and Live Videos

The rules about TikTok features such as live videos, comments, and links are also being expanded. For live videos, creators are responsible for what happens during their sessions, even if they use tools like voice-to-text. If harmful comments are read out loud by voice-to-text, it is the creator’s responsibility to manage this.

New rules also clarify what kind of content is not allowed during live streams. For example, shows with “low quality” content like blank screens or videos that may cause fear or anxiety, such as scary makeup, are not eligible to appear in People’s For You feeds.

Commenting and Interaction

TikTok is also changing how comments are handled. Comments that don’t add to a discussion, or that contain offensive language, might be ranked lower or hidden. TikTok wants comments to contribute positively to conversations.

How Will These Changes Be Enforced?

TikTok is using both human moderators and artificial intelligence (AI) to make sure these rules are followed. The company has talked with creators and experts to make the guidelines fair and useful. TikTok is also investing in new technology to help spot rule-breaking content quickly.

Related Updates

These guideline changes come shortly after TikTok added new features like fact-checking tools called Community Notes and parental controls to help protect younger users.

In Summary

TikTok’s updated Community Guidelines aim to make the platform safer and clearer for everyone. Creators need to be responsible for their content, especially during live videos, and commenters are encouraged to keep discussions respectful. These changes will help ensure TikTok remains a fun place for creativity and connection, while also preventing harmful content.

Sources: TikTok announced these updates on September 13 to improve safety and clarity for users worldwide.