Online Safety
Technology & Kids
Parental Controls
Is TikTok Safe? A Deep Dive into Potential Risks
Jul 12, 2025
It feels like everything revolves around TikTok these days. From funny videos and catchy songs to your child’s favorite shows and game streamers, everything is just a tap away. Maybe you even have the app on your own phone and know how entertaining it can be. Still, with all the excitement, we’re also aware of the risks that come with it. We see the headlines whenever a new controversy pops up, or maybe we hear about it from another parent in the school chat. If you’re feeling concerned, you’re definitely not alone.
Parenting in a digital-first world is complicated. You don’t want to be the bad guy who bans what your child loves, but it’s hard not to worry. The reality is, TikTok has its risks—but with the right tools and conversations, you can help your child navigate it more safely. Let’s explore what you need to know.
Imagine this for a moment: every time your child opens TikTok, watches a video, or interacts with a post, the app is quietly taking note of all those details and building a profile. All of this data can end up in the hands of advertisers, tech companies, and, in some cases, even people we don’t know.
1. Data Privacy: What’s Really Being Collected?
Imagine this for a moment: every time your child opens TikTok, watches a video, or interacts with a post, the app is quietly taking note of all those details and building a profile. All of this data can end up in the hands of advertisers, tech companies, and, in some cases, even people we don’t know. Sometimes this information is shared with third parties or stored on servers in other countries, which makes it even harder to keep track of where it all goes.
Many of us have heard about TikTok’s ties to its parent company in China or heard in the news when the app makes headlines over privacy concerns and government bans. Even though we don’t always get clear answers about where all this data ends up, the lack of transparency itself is enough to make any parent uneasy.
2. Inappropriate Content: Not Everything is Kid-Friendly
We all know how creative and entertaining TikTok can be, but the truth is, not everything on the app is meant for young eyes. Even with filters in place, kids can stumble upon videos featuring violence, hate speech, or sexually suggestive material. Maybe you’ve already noticed your child repeating a phrase or joke you didn’t recognize and wondered where it came from.
Another concern is cyberbullying. On TikTok, hurtful comments or rumors can spread quickly and can follow our kids long after school is over. It’s tough to think about, but it’s a reality on platforms where things can go viral in an instant.
3. Cybersecurity Threats: Scams and Malware
Most of us have gotten pretty good at spotting and deleting suspicious emails or messages, but it’s not always so easy for our kids. On TikTok, scammers and hackers often go after younger users by sending messages that promise free followers, exclusive content, or even rewards tied to their favorite games and creators. These offers can be hard for kids to resist, but they often come with harmful links or requests for personal information, which can end up causing real trouble—not just for them but sometimes for us as parents, too.
4. Harmful Challenges and Viral Dares
We all know TikTok is famous for its viral challenges. Some of them, like the latest dance crazes or rating games, are just good, harmless fun. But others can be downright dangerous. From the “Blackout Challenge” (encouraging kids to hold their breath until they pass out) to the “Benadryl Challenge” (involving excessive medication), some trends have landed kids in the ER, or worse.
As a parent, this is terrifying. And while these challenges aren’t the norm, they’re a reminder of the importance of staying involved in your child’s online life.
5. Mental Health Concerns: The Pressure to Keep Up
Social media can amplify feelings of comparison and inadequacy. On TikTok, where likes, views, and comments are front and center, kids may feel constant pressure to perform or look a certain way to be more “cool” or “beautiful”.
Maybe you’ve noticed your child’s mood shift after a long TikTok session or seen them become more self-conscious about their appearance. These little changes can be signs that the app is taking a toll on their mental health.
How Can You Help Keep Your Child Safe?
We get it—reading about these risks can feel overwhelming. But here’s the good news: by staying informed and involved, you’re already taking the most important step. Here are a few practical ways to help your child navigate TikTok safely:
Get Involved (and Stay Curious): Sit down with your child and review TikTok’s privacy settings. Help them make their account private, limit who can contact them, and turn off personalized ads. This isn’t about spying, it’s about learning alongside them.
Use Parental Controls: Take advantage of TikTok’s built-in supervision tools. Set daily screen time limits, enable Restricted Mode to filter out mature content, and consider linking your account with theirs for a little extra peace of mind.
Keep Talking—Honestly and Often: Ask your child what they’re watching, who their favorite creators are, and if anything has made them uncomfortable. Let them know they can come to you, no judgment, if they ever feel uneasy about something they’ve seen.
Set Family Boundaries: Agree on rules that work for your household—like tech-free dinners, daily screen time limits, or occasionally scrolling through TikTok together. This isn’t about spying; it’s about showing you care and staying connected to their world.
Stay Informed: Social media trends move fast. Make an effort to keep up with what’s popular, and ask your child to share what’s trending. They might roll their eyes, but it’s a great way to keep the dialogue going.
By taking these steps, you’re not just setting rules. You’re building trust and helping your kids feel confident to explore TikTok and other online spaces safely, knowing they can come to you with questions or concerns.
We get it—reading about these risks can feel overwhelming. But here’s the good news: by staying informed and involved, you’re already taking the most important step.
How Apparently Helps You on This Journey
At Apparently, we understand firsthand how challenging it is to parent in today’s digital world, because we’re also navigating the same questions, concerns, and daily surprises. Our team of parents, educators, psychologists, and tech experts designed Apparently to be the resource we always wished we had:
Personalized guidance: Step-by-step advice for your unique family.
A supportive community: Connect with other parents and join live Q&As with experts.
Expert-led learning: Practical courses on digital safety, wellbeing, and the latest tech trends.
Simple, smart tools: Features that adapt as your kids grow, making it easier to set boundaries and keep conversations going.
Whether you’re worried about TikTok or just want to feel more confident navigating your child’s digital world, Apparently is here to help.
At Apparently, we understand firsthand how challenging it is to parent in today’s digital world, because we’re also navigating the same questions, concerns, and daily surprises.
Discover How Apparently Guides Can Help You Protect Your Child Online
TikTok can be a wonderful way for your child to have fun and express themselves, but it does come with real risks. The most powerful tool you have is staying involved: asking questions, setting boundaries, and keeping those conversations open. If you want a little extra support along the way, our free Parent Guide to TikTok is full of practical tips and up-to-date information to help you feel more confident.
Parenting in the digital age isn’t easy, but just by showing up, asking questions, and caring about what your child is experiencing, you’re already making a big difference. If you’re ready for more guidance, Apparently is here to help. Try our app for free for 14 days and see how it can make navigating your child’s online world a little easier. We’re in this together.