It’s been almost exactly a year since the last significant threat of a TikTok ban in the US. This time, a bill to ban the popular social media app on US shores passed by a unanimous vote in the House of Representatives committee. Considering the bipartisan support, the bill may glide through the House, to the Senate and end up on President Joe Biden’s desk within weeks.
The prospect of a total US ban now seems very real.
What this would mean, how it would work, and what comes next are largely unchanged from when we wrote this story last year.
TikTok’s infinite stream of lip-sync videos, illusions, and air fryer recipes might seem innocent enough, but the app is now facing the very serious threat of a US ban.
Over the past year, TikTok has been in the eye of a political storm that has seen it banned from government devices in the US, the EU, and now the UK. But it’s the very real prospect of an outright TikTok ban in the US that’s worrying the app’s millions of users.
The US government, including the current Biden administration, has investigated TikTok and its relationship with its China-based parent company for several years now.
The app has responded to allegations that it collects and stores the data of American users by making several changes, including moving all of its US data to Oracle’s servers. But none of this has sated US concerns that the app poses a national security threat. Last year, TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew appeared before Congress to defend the app.
So what does this all mean for TikTok’s hundreds of millions of global users, and in particular the 150 million who live in the US? Here’s everything you need to know about the prospect of a TikTok ban in the US.
Why is the TikTok ban potentially happening?
The main accusation behind the potential TikTok ban in the US is that the app poses a threat to national security. But wait, aren’t most TikTok videos just frivolous video game walkthroughs and TV show clips?
Yes, but the problem is less the content and more what TikTok might allegedly be doing with the underlying data it gathers – about your likes and comments, and also where you are in the world and who you interact with.
For example, in February FBI Director Christopher Wray expressed “extreme” concern about the potential for China to “weaponize” data gathered from TikTok’s US-based fans.
This stems from the fact that TikTok is owned by Chinese company ByteDance – and Chinese law allows its government to force any company to hand over data they’re holding on their servers.
(Image credit: Shutterstock / Koshiro K)
Another accusation made by Wray was that the Chinese government could strong-arm TikTok in a way that would allow it to “control the recommendation algorithm”, therefore giving it huge potential influence given that more people than ever get their news from TikTok and YouTube.
While there’s currently no hard evidence of either practice being widespread TikTok, it does (like Facebook and Instagram) collect a lot of user data. Last year, four employees were also fired from TikTok’s parent company ByteDance for allegedly gathering usage data of US journalists.
A list of data that TikTok collects about you from The Washington Post. (Image credit: The Washington Post)
Whether or not this all poses enough of a security risk for the US government to take the unprecedented step of a complete TikTok ban remains to be seen. On March 7, 2023, a new bill made it easier for the US government to ban apps that pose a national security risk.
But on March 22, 2023, TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew argued that the app has “never shared US users data” and has a “responsibility to protect” its 150 million US users.
How would a TikTok ban work?
We’ve actually already seen the most likely way that a TikTok ban would work in practice. Back in September 2020, the US Department of Commerce issued a ban that ordered both Apple and Google to remove TikTok and WeChat from their US app stores.
This ban was ultimately blocked by a federal judge and eventually revoked by President Biden last year, but the incident gives us a taste of what could happen if TikTok’s owners refuse to divest their stakes in the app.
(Image credit: Shutterstock / Ti Vla)
If US users can’t download TikTok from the iOS or Android app stores, that would cut them off from future updates. And after a while, this would likely result in the app no longer working on their smartphones.
It may also be possible for the US government to prevent TikTok access by identifying your IP address and preventing access to the web version of the app. But it isn’t yet clear if that’s on the cards, and there would be potential ways around this.
Is there a way around a potential TikTok Ban?
While a ban on TikTok appearing in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store would be a major roadblock to using the app in the US, there could be potential workarounds if that happened.
The most obvious way would be to use one of the best mobile VPNs to change your location (at least in the eyes of your ISP). While this would come at a monthly cost, the method could work as long as you choose a server that’s based in a country where TikTok isn’t banned.
(Image credit: Shutterstock)
Our top mobile VPN right now is ExpressVPN, though NordVPN and Surfshark are also good choices. That said, there is a chance that even these VPNs may not be able to circumvent a TikTok ban in the US.
TikTok says that it “collects your approximate location information based on your device or network information, such as SIM card and IP address”. In theory, this means that your device could still use that rough location data to ban you from using the service.
If that’s the case, your best hope may be the emergence of spin-off TikTok apps, which is what happened in India when the country banned the app in 2020.
TikTok’s future is looking increasingly uncertain as support grows for a new bill that would force the company to sell itself or face a ban in the United States. Now, President Joe Biden has come out in support of the measure, one day after it cleared its first legislative hurdle in the House.
“If they pass it, I’ll sign it,” he said, in remarks CBS News. The bill, called the “Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act,” which was introduced earlier this week, would give TikTok a six-month window to divest itself from parent company ByteDance or face an app store-level ban in the US. Meanwhile, Republicans in the House of Representatives could bring the bill to a floor vote as early as Wednesday, Semafor .
TikTok has said the bill is a thinly-veiled effort to force a “total ban” of its app. “This legislation has a predetermined outcome: a total ban of TikTok in the United States,” the company said in a statement earlier this week. “The government is attempting to strip 170 million Americans of their Constitutional right to free expression. This will damage millions of businesses, deny artists an audience, and destroy the livelihoods of countless creators across the country.”
The company has also encouraged its millions of users to oppose the measure. On Thursday, ahead of the committee vote on the bill, the app sent push notifications prompting users to call their representatives and ask them to oppose the legislation. The notifications reportedly led to of calls in many Congressional offices as staffers fielded hundreds of calls from teens.
Notably, the bill has another prominent opponent: former President Donald Trump. Though Trump also sought to force of TikTok to a US company during his time in office, the former president said he no longer believes the app should be banned. “If you get rid of TikTok, Facebook and Zuckerschmuck will double their business,” he wrote in a post on Truth Social.
Though clearing the House would be significant milestone for the bill, it’s unclear where the Senate stands on it. As Semafor points out, some prominent senators have been a bit more cautious in their comments about whether they would support the legislation. At a recent Senate hearing about child safety, several senators TikTok CEO Shou Chew on his own citizenship (he’s Singaporean) as well as the app’s ties to China and the practices of its parent company ByteDance.
In the rapidly evolving landscape of social media, TikTok has emerged as a powerhouse, particularly among younger demographics. With its skyrocketing popularity, many are exploring different avenues to gain followers and increase their influence on the platform. While organic growth remains the gold standard for long-term sustainability, buying followers can provide an initial boost to your TikTok profile. This article aims to educate readers about the top 5 websites where you can buy TikTok followers, discussing the benefits and steps involved in the process.
Importance of Buying TikTok Followers
Immediate Exposure
The first and foremost reason for buying TikTok followers is the immediate exposure it can bring. As the algorithm favors profiles with more followers and engagement, having a larger follower count can significantly boost your reach on the platform.
Credibility Boost
Let’s face it; numbers do matter when it comes to social media. A profile with a substantial follower count automatically appears more credible and influential, potentially attracting more organic followers.
Competitive Edge
In a saturated market, standing out is critical. Buying followers can give you that initial push needed to capture the attention of users and the TikTok algorithm, offering a competitive advantage.
Steps of Buying TikTok Followers
Research: Your first step should be to thoroughly research the websites offering these services. Ensure they possess positive feedback and endorsements.
Select a Package: Websites usually offer different packages based on the number of followers, engagement rate, etc. Select a package that aligns with your requirements and financial plan.
Checkout Process: After selecting your package, you will usually be directed to a checkout page where you can make the payment.
Provide Account Details: You’ll typically need to provide your TikTok username, but never give your password to these services.
Order Fulfillment: After the payment, wait for the followers to be added to your account. This could take anywhere from a few hours to a few days, depending on the service.
Top 5 Websites to Buy TikTok Followers
1. Social-Viral.com
They specialize in instant social media growth and has a dedicated service for TikTok followers. Social-Viral focus on real, quality followers makes them a go-to choice for those looking for meaningful engagement.
If quick delivery is your top priority, Social-Viral might be your best bet. This platform prides itself on providing ‘real followers,’ which can be a rarity in this business. However, this service quality comes at a higher price point.
✅Pros:
Quick Delivery: One of the standout features is the swift delivery of followers, often within a few hours of making a payment.
Real Followers: Unlike many platforms that offer bot-generated followers, Social-Viral.com claims to provide real, high-quality followers, which can improve engagement rates.
❌Cons:
Higher Price Point: High quality frequently entails a higher price. The packages here are generally more expensive compared to other platforms.
Limited Customization: The website offers fewer customization options like geo-targeting or delivery speed.
How to Buy:
Go to their TikTok services section.
Choose your preferred package.
Provide your TikTok username.
Complete the payment process.
2. Stormlikes.net
Stormlikes is not only reputable for its customer service but also offers a variety of packages tailored for TikTok growth. With options ranging from low-cost to premium, they have something for every budget.
With excellent customer service and a variety of packages, Stormlikes offers something for everyone. One downside could be the slower delivery time compared to other services, so this might not be the best option if you’re in a hurry.
✅Pros:
Customer Service: Known for their robust customer service, they offer 24/7 support for any issues or queries.
Variety of Packages: With multiple options based on follower count and budget, this platform caters to a diverse user base.
❌Cons:
Slower Delivery: While they offer quality service, the delivery time for followers can be slower, which might not suit those looking for instant growth.
Price Fluctuation: Prices can vary based on demand, making it somewhat unpredictable.
How to Buy:
Navigate to the TikTok section on their website.
Browse through available packages.
Select your package and proceed to checkout.
Input your TikTok username.
3. Stormviews.net
Stormviews aims to provide a balance between quality and affordability, making it an appealing choice for those who don’t want to compromise on either. Their service is particularly suited for those who aim for long-term growth on TikTok.
Stormviews stands out for its high-quality followers and competitive pricing. The platform, however, has limited payment options, which could be a constraint for some users.
✅Pros:
High-Quality Followers: This platform specializes in providing high-quality followers, aiming for long-term engagement rather than just boosting numbers.
Competitive Pricing: Despite their high-quality service, the pricing is competitive, offering good value for money.
❌Cons:
Limited Payment Options: One significant drawback is the limited payment methods, which might deter potential buyers.
Limited Geo-Targeting: There are fewer options for targeting followers based on geographical location.
How to Buy:
Visit their website and choose the TikTok followers option.
Select a package based on your needs.
Provide your TikTok username.
Make your payment.
4. Twicsy.net
Twicsy is a newer entrant in the social media growth market but has quickly garnered attention for its organic growth strategies. Their focus on long-term, quality followers aligns well with sustainable TikTok growth strategies.
This lesser-known brand distinguishes itself by employing organic growth methods, making it a more ethical choice. They even offer a money-back guarantee if the service doesn’t meet your expectations.
Money-Back Guarantee: If you’re unsatisfied with their service, they offer a money-back guarantee.
❌Cons:
Lesser-Known Brand: Being a relatively new player in the market, it lacks the reputation of more established services.
Longer Wait Time: Because they use organic methods, the delivery time can be longer than other quick-fix solutions.
How to Buy:
Navigate to their TikTok services on the website.
Choose the follower package that suits your needs.
Provide your TikTok username.
Complete the payment.
5. UseViral.co.in
UseViral specializes in providing TikTok followers for the Indian market. Their quick delivery times and focus on a specific geographical area make them a unique choice for those targeting Indian audiences.
Focused primarily on an Indian audience, UseViral offers a quick turnaround time. However, it caters to a niche market, so consider your target audience before opting for this service.
✅Pros:
Indian Audience Focus: Ideal for those targeting an Indian audience, offering localized followers.
Quick Turnaround: Known for its quick delivery, often completing orders within 24 hours.
❌Cons:
Niche Market: Because of its focus on the Indian market, it may not be suitable for those targeting a global audience.
Quality Variability: The quality of followers can vary, leading to fluctuating engagement rates.
How to Buy:
Visit their website and locate the TikTok services.
Select your desired follower package.
Input your TikTok username during the checkout process.
Complete your purchase.
Practical Tips for Buying TikTok Followers
Verify Credibility
Before making a purchase, always check reviews and testimonials for credibility. If possible, consult others who have used the service.
Don’t Overdo It
Buying too many followers too quickly can raise red flags and may lead to your account getting flagged or banned.
Balance with Engagement
Remember, while a high follower count is impressive, it should be balanced with actual engagement. Aim to boost your likes and comments organically, even if your follower count is artificially inflated.
Keep Producing Quality Content
Buying followers should never be a substitute for producing quality, engaging content. The best, most sustainable way to grow your following is still through excellent content creation.
Additional Considerations
Geographical Targeting
Some services offer the option to buy followers from specific countries or regions. This is crucial if your brand or message caters to a particular geographical audience.
Automation Features
Some platforms have built-in automation features that can schedule the delivery of followers over a period of time, making the growth appear more organic.
Customer Support
Robust customer support is essential when buying TikTok followers. Whether it’s troubleshooting an issue or asking for a refund, reliable customer support can make the experience seamless and stress-free.
Payment Security
Always ensure the service you choose uses secure payment gateways. Data breaches are rampant, and you don’t want your financial information compromised.
Read the Fine Print
Before making any purchase, always read the terms and conditions. This will keep you informed about any limitations or conditions that may apply, such as non-refundable clauses.
Combining Organic and Inorganic Strategies
While buying followers can give you a quick boost, it’s important to combine these inorganic strategies with organic growth methods for sustained success. Implement tactics like frequent posting, audience engagement, and analytics tracking to complement your purchased followers.
Buy Followers to Boost Your Growth
In the fast-paced world of social media, standing still often means getting left behind. While organic growth is the ideal scenario, it can sometimes take time to gain traction. This is where buying followers comes into play, serving as a catalyst for growth by offering several key advantages:
Instant Visibility
One of the immediate benefits of buying followers is instant visibility. Your posts are more likely to get featured on TikTok’s “For You” page if you have a large follower count, simply because the algorithm considers you more influential.
Social Proof
Social proof is a psychological concept in which individuals are more inclined to participate in something when they observe others doing it. A high follower count can act as a form of social proof, making people more likely to follow you organically.
Attracting Brands and Collaborations
If you’re looking to make money on TikTok or gain sponsorship deals, a high follower count can make you more attractive to brands. Companies often look for influencers with large followings to collaborate with, as it ensures their message will reach a broader audience.
Metrics and Analytics
When you buy followers, you should also get an uptick in metrics that you can track through TikTok Analytics or other third-party tools. This data can give you insights into audience demographics, engagement rates, and other valuable metrics, which can inform your future content and strategy.
Speeding Up the Monetization Process
For those who aim to monetize their TikTok account, having a large following can speed up the process. Platforms like TikTok offer various monetization options like brand partnerships, sponsored posts, and even a Creator Fund. A higher follower count can make these avenues more accessible.
Combining with Organic Strategies
It’s important to note that buying followers should be used in conjunction with organic strategies for the most effective, long-term growth. Use the initial boost from your purchased followers to attract more organic followers by leveraging high-quality, targeted content and engaging with your audience.
While buying followers can boost your growth, it is not a long-term strategy on its own. It can act as a springboard, but your continued growth will largely depend on your ability to produce content that resonates with your audience.
Conclusion
Navigating the realm of TikTok influence is a complex endeavor, filled with both opportunities and pitfalls. While the allure of instant fame via purchased followers is tempting, it’s essential to approach this avenue with caution and awareness. We’ve detailed the top 5 websites for buying TikTok followers, each with their unique set of pros and cons, to give you a headstart in your TikTok journey.
Buying Tiktok followers can offer immediate exposure and a competitive edge, but it’s crucial to maintain a balanced strategy that includes creating high-quality, engaging content. Remember, numbers may give an initial impression, but it’s your content that will retain followers and truly build your online identity.
In this ever-evolving digital landscape, the right strategies, combined with reliable platforms, can accelerate your TikTok growth. But never lose sight of the end goal—authentic engagement and content creation remain the cornerstones of any successful social media strategy.
