How to unblock TikTok in the US in 2024

TikTok is a popular social media platform owned by a subsidiary of a Chinese technology company, ByteDance. The Chinese-owned app has sparkled major concerns in the US due to its extensive data collection practices and alleged spreading of misinformation. US Intelligence officials fear that China could leverage TikTok to influence people in the US for political purposes. The controversy escalated in 2024, leading to major anti-TikTok laws and real danger of total TikTok ban in all of the US.

In spring 2024, the US Congress approved the TikTok ban bill that was later signed into law by president Joe Biden. It’s unclear when the potential ban will take effect and the TikTok parent company ByteDance is likely to dispute it in the U.S. Court of Appeals. However, some US states (like Montana, Indiana, Arkansas) are already working on legislation to ban TikTok on all personal devices.

Luckily, there’s a way to bypass TikTok restrictions by using a robust social media VPN. It can mask your true location making it as if you were outside the US and easily access TikTok. In this article, I walk you through the VPN services that passed my test and punched through the TikTok geofence in the US.

Why is TikTok getting banned in the US?

TikTok is being banned in the US due to concerns that the Chinese government could access sensitive user data through the popular short-form video app. China requires its companies, upon request, to share data with the government. Given TikTok is used by 170 million US citizens, data privacy experts and US intelligence services alike see big implications for US national security. And the fact that the Chinese-owned social media platform has consistently resisted selling its US operations to a buyer unaffiliated with China only heightened those concerns. Not to mention, parents and mental-health experts have long been vocal about TikTok’s addictiveness for teenagers and young adults.

Growing concerns resulted in the US House of Representatives passing a bill to ban TikTok (Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications or PAFCA). And President Biden signed this bill into law in April 2024. This law would ban Chinese-owned TikTok in the US altogether unless it is sold within a year.

TikTok is negotiating with US officials to address security concerns and avoid a potential ban, even considering selling the app to a US company. Additionally, the company has filed a lawsuit against the US government, arguing that the proposed ban violates the First Amendment. They claim the ban unfairly targets their platform, meaning they could delay or overturn the ban.

The potential banning of TikTok could affect 170 million US users and content creators. TikTok would be prohibited from US app stores, limiting new downloads and restricting app use for existing users. Even if you have the app, you won’t be able to access any content with it. However, you can easily bypass the US TikTok ban and have unrestricted access to the app with a trustworthy VPN. It will conceal your true location, unblocking TikTok in the US.

How VPN can help bypass TikTok ban in the US?

VPN spoofs your actual location thus lifting geo-restrictions and unblocking content. In other words, a VPN lets you choose a location in a TikTok-friendly country, encrypts and reroutes your traffic through a server there, and grants you a new IP address. With it, you get full access to the platform and neither TikTok nor your ISP (Internet Service Provider) will know you’re in the US.

To obfuscate the origin of your IP address, a TikTok VPN should come with robust encryption, DNS leak protection and a kill switch. Otherwise, your true location might leak while on TikTok or the moment your internet connection drops. And the location reveal gives TikTok a reason to block you. The other crucial element when selecting a VPN to bypass the TikTok ban in the US is server coverage. You need a VPN with a vast selection of servers in nearby TikTok legal countries (outside US but still close) to stream TikTok videos with no buffering. Plus, If one server isn’t working, you can easily switch to another one and enjoy unrestricted access to TikTok.

When I tested TikTok unblocking from the US, NordVPN proved to be the best VPN for this job. It ticks all the boxes when it comes to encryption and server network, while also delivering smooth speeds for content streaming.

Best VPNs for unblocking TikTok in the US

I tested 22 providers to hand-pick those that can punch through the US TikTok ban. In testing them, I focused primarily on encryption strength, security toolkit, and server network — three musts when it comes to geo-restricted social networks heavy on video content. Here’s a list of the VPNs that stood out from the rest:

1. NordVPN – overall best VPN to bypass US TikTok ban
2. Surfshark – affordable TikTok VPN with unlimited devices
3. ExpressVPN – premium TikTok VPN with advanced security features

1. NordVPN – the best secure and fast VPN to circumvent US TikTok ban

NordVPN is the fastest and most reliable solution for bypassing the TikTok ban in the US. During my testing, NordVPN delivered impressive speeds of 117.42 Mbps on nearby Canada server locations, only a 7% drop from my usual internet speed. You can connect to a nearby TikTok server with 510+ servers in Canada and Mexico to bypass regional restrictions without compromising speed or video quality.

NordVPN has the advantage of obfuscating the origin of your IP address with the Double VPN and AES-256 encryption. TikTok or your ISP (Internet Service Provider) cannot detect your true location because it encrypts your internet traffic twice, making it virtually impossible for anyone to intercept or decipher your data.

Additionally, the no-logs policy ensures that NordVPN doesn't track or store any of your TikTok activities, maintaining your anonymity and protecting you from being blocked out. Even if your VPN connection drops, you will not accidentally expose your real IP address with the VPN kill switch and DNS leak protection. These features are automatically enabled when you connect to the VPN, providing an extra layer of protection.

NordVPN offers great value with its pricing, starting with a subscription today for $2.99/month. It also provides a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to try the service risk-free. On top of that, NordVPN offers a 7-day free trial to allow you to test the service before committing. For further investigation into NordVPN features read its detailed review.

2. Surfshark – budget TikTok VPN with stellar speeds

Surfshark is another outstanding VPN for bypassing TikTok restrictions in the US. It excels with its robust network of 124+ servers in nearby countries like Mexico and Canada, providing reliable and fast connections. I found Surfshark was extremely smooth, maintaining 119.71 Mbps with Canada connections, only 5% slower than I normally experience. So far, streaming videos have been without interruption. It’s effortless with the WireGuard tunnelling protocol since it enhances speed and security.

Surfshark's security features provide maximum protection and anonymity while using TikTok. The AES-256 encryption guarantees that your internet traffic is securely encrypted. Likewise, it's worthwhile to remember that Camouflage Mode disguises your VPN usage so no one can detect your TikTok activity. It also prevents your TikTok account from being blocked or suspended due to VPN usage.

Surfshark offers unlimited simultaneous connections, one of its standout features. So you don't need to log out of anything simultaneously. Speaking of this, you and your family members can download the app on all your devices. This way, you can protect all your devices with one subscription, allowing every household member to use TikTok or other content without restriction. To name a few, I easily bypassed Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer geo-restrictions with this VPN.

Surfshark offers great value for its features, with a minimum price of just $2.19/month. You can also try the service with a 30-day money-back guarantee to ensure it meets your needs. Besides, Surfshark proposes a 7-day free trial to access TikTok content securely and efficiently. To learn more about these and other features Surfshark has check out its review.

3. ExpressVPN – premium VPN for TikTok with high-end security features

ExpressVPN is yet another great option for unblocking TikTok in the US for those prepared to invest in a pricey subscription. It excels with its vast network of servers in Mexico and Canada, providing reliable and fast connections for seamless TikTok access. In my personal experience, using ExpressVPN to unblock TikTok was incredibly smooth speed retention of 117.4 Mbps connecting to Canada). There was only a 6% drop in speed from what I am used to.

ExpressVPN's security features provide maximum protection and anonymity while accessing TikTok from the US. The proprietary Lightway tunnelling protocol enhances speed and security, while RAM-only servers safeguard your privacy. Most importantly, the kill switch automatically cuts off your internet connection if the VPN connection drops, preventing accidental IP address exposure.

Besides, AES-256 encryption ensures that your internet traffic is securely encrypted, making it nearly impossible for anyone to block or decipher your data while using TikTok. Beyond that, ExpressVPN supports up to 8 simultaneous connections, protecting multiple devices in parallel. This is ideal if you have multiple devices that need cybersecurity to ensure your personal information is private and secure.

In terms of pricing, ExpressVPN offers a great value for money, with a one-year subscription starting at $4.99/month. It also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, which allows you to test the service risk-free and determine whether it suits your needs. The full lowdown on ExpressVPN could be found in its review.

How to choose the best VPN for unblocking TikTok in the US

Choosing the best VPN for unblocking TikTok in the US can be tricky, as there are many providers nowadays. However, we decided to simplify this process by highlighting the most crucial aspects you should consider:

• Server coverage: Choosing a VPN with broad server coverage is vital for accessing TikTok from anywhere. It will even help you avoid crowding and slower speeds, as you’ll always have the chance to switch to another server. Therefore, you should look for a VPN provider with vast server coverage and servers available in Canada or Mexico.
• Security features: Your chosen TikTok VPN needs to have strong security measures. These include robust encryption protocols, a kill switch, and DNS leak protection, significantly enhancing your safety and anonymity.
• Privacy policies: Always select a VPN with obfuscation technology to mask VPN traffic and enhance privacy. In addition, you need to look for a strict no-logs policy to guarantee that your browsing history and personal data are not recorded or shared with third parties.
• Performance and speed: Another essential aspect is considering a VPN that offers reliable performance with fast and stable connections. A VPN that provides a vast network of servers and the WireGuard protocol (or its adaptations, such as NordLynx) will ensure the best possible speeds for video streaming.
• Avoid free VPNs: Free VPN services often have limitations (smaller server fleets), questionable privacy practices (lack crucial security features), and slower speeds. All of this will negatively impact your overall experience, so it’s best to avoid free providers.

Try the best VPN to unblock TikTok

How to bypass TikTok ban with a VPN on different devices

When TikTok is blocked in the US, users can access it differently from their phones or browsers. This process will also vary depending on whether you already have the app installed on your phone. So, let’s go through our brief step-by-step guides together!

Unblocking TikTok on iPhone and Android devices

If you already have the app installed on your mobile device:

1. Open your VPN app.
2. Select a server from a country where TikTok is available. Choose a server outside the US but optimally still close, like in Canada or Mexico, to ensure higher connection speeds.
3. Connect to a VPN server.
4. Open the TikTok app on your device, as it now should be available.

Unblock TikTok on your smartphone

If you don’t have the app on your device:

1. TikTok will likely be removed from the App Store/Google Play for US users. To access it, connect to a VPN server where TikTok is available, switch your location on the App Store/Google Play, and try downloading it.
2. Once the TikTok app is installed, connect to a VPN server where the social media platform is available and open the app.

NOTE: You’ll need a phone number in another country to successfully change the country. Luckily, you can get one in no time by buying an eSIM that supports phone calls.

Unblocking TikTok on desktop

1. TikTok is also available on your browser on tiktok.com; however, if the social media platform gets banned in the US, the page will likely become unavailable.
2. Go to the website now after connecting to a VPN server where TikTok is accessible.

Change TikTok country with NordVPN

What US states have banned TikTok?

TikTok is currently banned in 39 US states on government-issued mobile phones and computers. Montana remains the only state to step further and ban TikTok from operating in the state altogether. The State Bill 419 its senate passed in 2023 also imposes stiff penalties on the TikTok app and the Apple and Google mobile app stores. However, the bill execution was put on hold after TikTok parent company ByteDance and a group of its users sued the State of Montana.

Can I use a free VPN to unblock TikTok in the USA?

Although it is technically possible, I don’t recommend using a free VPN to unblock TikTok in the USA. Free VPNs do not provide the same privacy and security benefits as paid VPNs. They lack some of the most important security measures, such as a kill switch, AES-256 encryption, and split tunneling. It increases chances of infecting your device with some type of cyber threat, and decreases chances of actually successfully unblocking TikTok in the US.

Furthermore, many free VPNs don’t function as promised. Some may even sell your data, leaving your networks open to attacks. These risks significantly threaten your device and your personal privacy. Free VPNs also have numerous limitations, such as smaller server fleets, come with few simultaneous connections, data caps, or they may not be compatible with your preferred device.

Instead of risking your privacy with glimpse chances of unblocking TikTok, consider opting for a premium VPN with a free trial or money-back guarantee. Take, for example, providers from my best list. All of them offer both along with hefty discounts if you opt for a long-term plan. And you can always cancel the subscription during the period covered by the guarantee and get a full refund. So it’s a low-risk, high-value option.

Unblock TikTok in US with NordVPN

Get TikTok unblocked: bottom line

TikTok has long been under scrutiny due to their extensive data collection, addictive content, and ties to China. The growing national security concerns from US lawmakers, intelligence experts, and the general public resulted in the TikTok ban bill that was signed into law in April 2024. When implemented, this legislation will force Apple and Google to remove TikTok from their app store, stopping new downloads. Hosting services will be obliged to block access for existing TikTok users across the US.

As of December 2024, VPNs remain the go-to working solution to bypass state laws and access TikTok. My personal recommendation is NordVPN, as it effectively unblocks TikTok from the US. It comes with a vast server network and extensive security toolkit to keep your online activity safe from prying eyes, while advanced tunnelling protocols deliver consistently high speeds.

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You may also like to read:

The ultimate guide to change TikTok region
How to fix TikTok region if it’s not working
How to buy cheap TikTok coins
How to change location on your iPhone
IPhone not working with VPN
How to change location on your Android

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FAQ

What happens if TikTok is banned in the US?

If TikTok is banned in the US, it will most likely be removed from the App Store and Google Play Store. This will significantly impact many content creators and small businesses that rely on this platform. However, you may still access it by using a VPN and changing your country right in the app.

Will I still be able to use TikTok in the US if I installed it before the ban?

No, you won’t be able to use TikTok even if you install it before the ban. You will be able to launch it but won’t have access to any content. Besides, you won’t be able to get app updates and patches since it will be removed from app stores. All these unless you employ a VPN to spoof your IP address, change TikTok country, and unblock the app. My personal recommendation is NordVPN.

How to get around a TikTok ban?

You can use a VPN to get around the TikTok ban. Get a trustworthy TikTok VPN (my top choice is NordVPN). Connect to a server in a close-by TikTok legal country like Canada or Mexico. Launch the app and enjoy.

What is the best VPN for unblocking TikTok in the US?

NordVPN is the best VPN for unblocking TikTok in the US. No other provider could match the service I tested thoroughly. Robust encryption combined with NordLynx tunnelling protocol overcomes the US ban by unblocking TikTok in restricted countries like the US. Additionally, this VPN has wide server networks in nearby countries (510+ in Canada and Mexico) for fastest connection speeds. DNS leak protection and kill switch ensure your location stays hidden at all times.

Is using a VPN to access TikTok in a banned country legal?

Yes, using a VPN to access TikTok in a banned country is legal. However, to stay completely safe, you should choose a reliable provider that hides all of your online activities and masks your IP address.

Can TikTok detect VPN usage?

Yes, TikTok can detect VPN usage. They have advanced detection techniques that allow them to blacklist all IP addresses that are associated with VPNs. When this happens, your access to TikTok might be restricted or blocked. To avoid this, I recommend choosing a reliable VPN, such as NordVPN, with features like obfuscated servers or stealth mode that allows it to remain undetected.