With the Supreme Court upholding a ban on TikTok, users are scrambling to back up their content before the platform goes dark this Sunday. This article provides essential guidance on saving videos and downloading personal data from TikTok. It also explores alternative platforms for those seeking new social media options. Users can easily download individual videos by accessing the Share button, but must be mindful of creators' restrictions. Additionally, TikTok offers a data download service that includes usernames, viewing history, and more. However, due to privacy concerns, not all data is available. Given the urgency, it's recommended to act quickly.
Saving Your TikTok Videos and Data Before the Ban Takes Effect
In light of the impending TikTok ban, many users are concerned about preserving their cherished memories and important data stored on the platform. For those looking to save specific videos, whether they're personal creations or favorites, the process is straightforward yet time-consuming. On both iOS and Android devices, users can navigate to their profile page, select the desired video, and tap the Share icon. From there, choosing "Save video" will store the content directly on the device. Similarly, photos can be saved using the same method. However, creators have the option to disable downloads, meaning some liked or bookmarked videos may not be available for preservation.
For users with extensive libraries of content, manually downloading each video can be tedious. While third-party apps offer bulk download services, caution is advised as their reliability varies. An alternative approach is requesting a comprehensive data package from TikTok itself. By navigating through the settings menu under the Account section, users can initiate a data download request. This file may include usernames, viewing history, comment logs, and privacy settings. TikTok emphasizes that certain data may not be accessible due to privacy considerations. Once the request is submitted, users will receive a notification when the file is ready, typically within a few days. Given the looming deadline, it's crucial to initiate this process promptly.
From a journalist's perspective, this situation underscores the importance of digital preservation and data management in an era where platforms can suddenly disappear. The TikTok ban serves as a reminder for users to remain vigilant about safeguarding their online presence and valuable content. As social media continues to evolve, being proactive in managing personal data is more critical than ever.