Highlights

• TikTok’s new passcode request raises privacy concerns among iPhone users.
• The issue coincides with Apple’s recent security updates for iOS devices.
• Potential reasons range from Restricted Mode activation to software glitches.
• Users advised to exercise caution and avoid sharing Apple ID passcodes.

Recent reports have surfaced that TikTok, the globally popular video-sharing app that is banned in several countries including India, is asking iPhone users for their passcodes to access content.

Given TikTok’s past controversies, including allegations of spying on journalists, the reasons behind this new request remain opaque and troubling.

The information comes to light from a report by Dataconomy which paints a bleak picture of TikTok’s latest privacy stunt.

Expert Insights and iOS Update

Industry experts, including those from Dataconomy, have not pinpointed a clear reason for this sudden change in TikTok’s operation.

The issue, first noted in late November, gained traction as more users reported similar experiences through December.

This timeline coincides with Apple’s release of urgent security updates for its products.

Potential Causes for TikTok’s Passcode Prompt

Several hypotheses have been proposed to explain TikTok’s unexpected passcode request.

Here are the four most probable reasons though.

Restricted Mode Activation: TikTok’s Restricted Mode is designed to filter sensitive content. Activating this feature could prompt a passcode request to ensure that content restrictions are being applied correctly. Users can verify the status of Restricted Mode in the app’s privacy settings under “content preferences.”

Software Glitches or Bugs: Some users suggest that the passcode prompt could be a bug or glitch within the app. Incidents where users bypass the prompt by selecting ‘cancel’ support this theory. This aligns with the typical erratic behavior of apps following software updates or due to internal glitches.

Security Measures or Updates: App developers occasionally introduce new security features without extensive disclosure. TikTok might have implemented such measures, necessitating passcode entry to address privacy or security vulnerabilities. However, as of now TikTok has remained mum on the whole situation.

App Updates and Changes: Regular updates to TikTok’s functionalities might inadvertently include this passcode prompt. Lack of explicit communication about such updates often leads to user confusion regarding new app features.

Advised Actions for Affected Users

Given the uncertainty surrounding this issue, users are advised to exercise caution.

TikTok has not been quite helpful in addressing its myriad privacy concerns.

Giving up your Apple ID might not be the best choice even though you are desperate to access your TikTok account.

Workarounds and Official Fixes: Users can try disabling Restricted Mode or updating the TikTok app. If issues persist, awaiting an official fix through app updates is recommended.

Password Security: Sharing passwords in response to unexpected app prompts is generally unsafe. Users should avoid disclosing their passcodes under such circumstances.

Investigative Steps: Checking TikTok’s app settings and ensuring the latest software updates might help clarify the situation. Users experiencing continuous issues should contact TikTok’s official support for guidance and report the anomaly.

TikTok’s Delicate Dance With User Privacy

This isn’t TikTok’s first rodeo with controversy.

There have been numerous instances where the company has not been truthful about its policies and consequently faced fines and in some cases complete bans:

• Underage User Data: TikTok has been criticized for its handling of data belonging to underage users. In February 2021, the company agreed to pay $92 million to settle a lawsuit alleging it unlawfully collected personal data from minors.
• Bans and Investigations: Due to these concerns, TikTok has faced bans and investigations in various countries. For instance, in 2020, India banned TikTok along with other Chinese apps citing cybersecurity concerns. The United States has also considered similar actions due to national security concerns.
• Litigation and Fines: TikTok has faced litigation and fines in different jurisdictions related to data privacy issues. The company has had to adjust its policies and practices to comply with local laws and regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in Europe.

FAQs

Why is TikTok asking iPhone users for their passcodes?

TikTok’s recent request for iPhone passcodes has raised concerns, with potential reasons including Restricted Mode activation, software bugs, security updates, or changes in app functionalities. The exact cause remains unclear.

What is Restricted Mode on TikTok and how does it relate to the passcode request?

Restricted Mode on TikTok helps filter out sensitive content. Activation of this mode might prompt the app to request a passcode, ensuring that content viewing is appropriately controlled.

Could the passcode request be a result of a software glitch?

Some users have speculated that the passcode prompt might be a bug or glitch within TikTok, especially if users can bypass the request, which is common after software updates.

What should users do if they encounter this passcode prompt on TikTok?

Users are advised to check their app settings and ensure TikTok is updated. If the issue persists, contacting TikTok’s official support for guidance is recommended.

Who unexpectedly received the 60 iPhone 15 Pro Max units?

TikToker @legends_gio unexpectedly received 60 units, instead of the four he ordered.

How much is the total worth of the mistakenly delivered iPhones?

The unexpected delivery totals around $96,000, considering the 1TB iPhone 15 Pro Max models.

What could be the consequences of this delivery error for @legends_gio?

While initially exciting, Apple has the ability to remotely disable any unauthorized iPhone, making the excitement potentially short-lived.

Could this oversight impact Apple’s delivery system?

While it’s unclear how such an error occurred, it might lead to enhanced checks and balances in Apple’s dispatch and delivery systems.

Also Read: TikTok CEO comments India banning TikTok is ‘hypothetical’ during the US Congress hearing

Also Read: Unexpected Apple Delivery: TikToker Receives $96,000 Worth of iPhone 15 Pro Max By Mistake