How to Get Around the US TikTok Ban with VPNs

TikTok, the immensely popular video-sharing platform, has recently faced significant legal challenges in the United States. On January 19, 2025, a nationwide ban on TikTok was officially enacted due to concerns over user data privacy and its ties to the Chinese government. This ban was upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court, which dismissed arguments from TikTok claiming that the ban infringed on free speech rights. The court ruled that national security concerns justified the prohibition unless TikTok's parent company, ByteDance, divested its U.S. operations by the deadline.

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Despite these developments, many American users still wish to access TikTok for entertainment and business purposes. Fortunately, using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) can effectively circumvent this ban and restore access to the app.

How to Access TikTok in the U.S. with a VPN

A VPN allows users to connect to servers in different countries, effectively masking their IP addresses and making it appear as though they are accessing the internet from a location where TikTok is still available. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how American users can use a VPN to access TikTok:

1. Choose a Reliable VPN Service: Start by selecting a reputable VPN service that has servers outside of the U.S., such as Canada or the UK. (Using a VPN not only helps in accessing blocked content but also enhances online privacy and security by encrypting user data.)

2. Download and Install the VPN: Install the VPN application on your device (smartphone, tablet, or computer).

3. Connect to a Non-U.S. Server: Open the VPN app and connect to a server located in a country where TikTok is still operational, like Canada or the UK.

4. Create or Log into Your Non-U.S. TikTok Account: If you don’t have one, create an account while connected to the VPN.

5. Remove Your SIM Card: To enhance your chances of accessing TikTok without issues, remove your U.S. SIM card from your device. Alternatively, use a device that does not have a U.S. SIM card or phone number.

Important Note on SIM Cards

Using a VPN alone may not guarantee access to TikTok due to additional measures implemented by the platform. Reports suggest that TikTok prioritizes information from your SIM card over your VPN connection. Therefore, if you connect with a U.S. SIM card while using a VPN, TikTok may recognize your location based on the SIM rather than the VPN's IP address.

To maximize your chances of successful access:

Create or log into a non-U.S. TikTok account after removing your SIM card.
Consider using desktop browsers or the Tor Browser as some users have reported success accessing non-U.S. accounts this way.

6. Launch TikTok: Once connected, open the TikTok app or website and enjoy unrestricted access.

5 Best VPNs to Access TikTok in the US After the Ban

Here are some of the top VPN services that can help you bypass the US TikTok ban:

NordVPN: Known for its extensive server network and strong security features, NordVPN is ideal for accessing TikTok securely.

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ExpressVPN: Offers fast speeds and reliable connections with servers in numerous countries, making it a great choice for streaming content.
Surfshark: A budget-friendly option that allows unlimited device connections and has robust privacy features.
CyberGhost: Provides user-friendly apps and dedicated servers optimized for streaming services like TikTok.
Private Internet Access (PIA): Known for its strong privacy policies and customizable settings, PIA is effective for accessing geo-restricted content.

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While navigating the complexities of accessing TikTok amid changing regulations can be frustrating, utilizing a VPN effectively can restore your access to this popular platform. By following the steps outlined above and choosing one of the recommended VPNs, you can continue enjoying TikTok without interruption.