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So, you’ve been posting on TikTok like crazy, putting your creative flair to work, only to realize your views have plummeted. Cue the frustration. Has TikTok done you dirty? Could it be that dreaded shadow ban? We get it, it’s like getting kicked out of the party without even knowing what you did wrong. Well, let’s get down to it: how can you know if you’re actually shadow banned on TikTok?
What is a TikTok Shadow Ban?
Before we dive into the signs, let’s first understand what a TikTok shadow ban is. A shadow ban is when TikTok reduces the visibility of your content without actually notifying you. Essentially, your posts won’t reach the “For You” page or the feeds of new viewers, leaving you talking into a digital void. Think of it like being put on mute during a Zoom call – you’re still there, talking, but nobody hears you.
Signs you might be Shadow Banned on TikTok
1. Sudden drop in views
The most obvious sign you’re shadow banned is that your video views drop dramatically overnight. If you’re used to getting thousands of views, and suddenly you’re seeing single or double digits – red flag! TikTok might have limited your audience reach, making your content almost invisible to non-followers.
2. No exposure on the “For You” page
A key source of views for TikTok videos is the “For You” page. If your posts have stopped showing up there, even for those following you, it’s possible you’re shadow banned. Typically, the “For You” page is where magic happens. When that flow of viewers suddenly dries up, well… you get the idea.
3. Engagement drops
Another telltale sign of a TikTok shadow ban is a drop in engagement metrics – likes, comments, shares – all seemingly vanish into thin air. If your followers have stopped interacting with your posts, it could be because they aren’t even seeing them anymore.
4. Limited hashtag reach
Hashtags are your TikTok BFFs for exposure, right? If you don’t know how & why to add hashtags on your TikTok video, you can learn more here.
Well, back to the question, if you’re shadow banned, however, you might notice that your content doesn’t show up under any hashtags you’ve used. Hashtags become more like a wishful attempt to get noticed rather than an actual tool of visibility. Time to take a closer look. Btw, check out this article for 200+ Trending TikTok Hashtags.
Why do TikTok Shadow Bans happen?
The best way to avoid getting shadow banned is to understand why it happens. TikTok is all about keeping its platform safe and adhering to community guidelines. Here are some reasons that could lead to a shadow ban:
- Community guideline violations: TikTok has rules, lots of them. Violating them, even unknowingly, might put you in trouble. This includes posting inappropriate content, spammy activity, or misleading information.
- Spammy behavior: engaging in rapid, repetitive behavior like mass-following or mass-liking can be seen as spammy. TikTok dislikes anything that appears automated or overly “thirsty.”
- Banned hashtags: some hashtags are banned by TikTok, either temporarily or permanently. Using these banned hashtags could lower your post’s reach or get you shadow banned. Instead, try to use those trending hashtags.
How to fix a TikTok Shadow Ban
If you suspect you’ve been shadow banned, don’t panic. The ban is usually temporary, lasting anywhere from a few days to a week. Here’s what you can do to help yourself:
- Take a short break. Step back from posting for a few days. Sometimes giving TikTok some space helps – they’ll get over it (hopefully).
- Review community guidelines. Make sure you understand the guidelines and identify any violations. Clean up any content that may be questionable.
- Remove possible banned hashtags. Audit your previous posts and remove any potentially problematic hashtags. Research hashtags beforehand to ensure they’re safe to use.
- Contact TikTok support. If all else fails, reaching out to TikTok support for clarification can provide insight into any issues affecting your account.
Pro Tip for Marketers: use Kontentino to Track Performance
Getting shadow banned can feel like a major setback, especially for businesses or content creators who rely on TikTok for exposure. Kontentino’s analytics featurecan help you monitor your social media performance effectively so that you can catch these drops before it’s too late. Our tools make it easy to track your engagement and see where things might have gone wrong – so next time, you’ll spot any shadowy behavior early on!
How long does a TikTok Shadow Ban last?
It usually lasts between 3-14 days, depending on the severity of the issue. Once TikTok decides you’ve served your time, your content should slowly start reaching a broader audience again.
Can you get Unshadow Banned on TikTok?
Yes! Follow the tips we listed above, and eventually, your account should return to normal. Just remember to keep your content aligned with TikTok’s guidelines and avoid spammy tactics.
Does deleting videos help lift the Shadow Ban?
Sometimes. If you suspect a particular video is the culprit, deleting it can help lift the ban. Just be sure to pinpoint why it might be a problem – don’t make the same mistake twice!
How do I know if I’m reaching my audience?
Checking your TikTok analytics or account analytics inside of Kontentino is your best bet. Keep an eye on views, engagement, and your hashtag reach. A significant drop in these metrics could be an indication that something isn’t quite right.
