How to block unwanted ads on TikTok?

TikTok, a popular social media platform, displays various ads to its users. These ads can include video ads that play before, during, or after other videos, image ads that appear in the “For You” page, and sponsored content created by influencers or brands.

Many find these ads disruptive to their user experience. Ads can interrupt the flow of content, leading to frustration. Additionally, some users are concerned about their privacy, as ads often collect data about their viewing habits and interests. This data collection can lead to targeted advertising that feels intrusive or even creepy.

This article explores several methods to mitigate or eliminate unwanted ads on TikTok. We will examine ways to adjust your app settings, leverage third-party apps, and explore alternative approaches to improve your TikTok experience.

BlockingAdsUsingTikTokSettings

While you can’t completely block ads using only TikTok’s settings, you can influence the type and frequency of ads shown. This is achieved through adjusting your Interests and Data usage settings.

To access these settings:

Open TikTok and tap your profile icon.
Tap the three horizontal lines (Settings and privacy menu).
Tap Settings and privacy.
Tap Privacy.
Tap Personalized ads.

Here, you will find options related to:

Setting	Description
Personalized ads	This allows you to choose whether to see ads based on your interests. Turning this off will show you less targeted ads, though not eliminate them completely.
Ad data usage	This manages the amount of data TikTok collects to personalize your ads. Reducing this data might decrease the number of targeted ads.
Ad interests	Here you can manage topics and categories that dictate the kind of ads shown. Removing certain interests might lessen the number of ads you see on those specific topics.

Limitations: Even with these settings adjusted, ads will still appear on TikTok. Complete ad removal requires using third-party apps or browser extensions which are outside the scope of TikTok’s in-app settings.

Note: Screenshots cannot be provided in this text-based format.

EmployingThirdPartyAdBlockers

Third-party ad blockers can help you remove unwanted ads from TikTok. These tools work by blocking ads’ network requests, preventing them from appearing. They often work with browser extensions or as standalone apps.

Benefits:

Reduced interruptions while using the app.
Improved app performance.
Potentially faster loading times.

Drawbacks:

Compatibility issues: Not all ad blockers work perfectly with all versions of TikTok.
App functionality impact: Some ad blockers might interfere with certain TikTok features.
Updates and maintenance: Ad blockers need regular updates to stay effective against new ad techniques.

Examples:

Adblock Plus
uBlock Origin
AdGuard

Security Risks:

Using unverified third-party apps can pose security risks. Always download apps from trusted sources, read reviews carefully, and check for permissions requested by the app. Installing an untrusted ad blocker could expose you to malware or compromise your privacy.

AdjustingYourDataPrivacySettings

Reducing the data TikTok collects can significantly decrease the number of targeted ads you see. Targeted ads rely on TikTok gathering information about your activity on and off the app. By limiting this data collection, you make it harder for TikTok to create a detailed profile of your interests, resulting in fewer personalized ads.

Here’s how to adjust your settings:

Within the TikTok App:

TikTok’s in-app settings offer control over data collection. You can find these settings by navigating to your profile, then looking for ‘Settings and privacy’ or a similar option. Look for options relating to:

Data collection: Limit what data TikTok gathers about your activity, interests and preferences.
Personalized ads: Toggle off the option for personalized ads. This prevents TikTok from using your data to show you ads tailored to your interests.
Ad preferences: Manage your ad interests within TikTok’s advertising settings. You may be able to remove specific interests or categories that lead to unwanted ads.

Device’s Operating System Settings:

Your device’s settings also affect data collection. For iOS (Apple) or Android devices, you can adjust privacy settings that impact apps like TikTok. Adjust settings for:

Location services: Restrict TikTok’s access to your precise location.
Camera and microphone access: Limit or disable these permissions if you’re not using the features actively.
Advertising identifiers: Reset your advertising identifier on your device. This will help limit the tracking done by TikTok and other apps. Specific instructions on how to access and reset these identifiers vary between iOS and Android, refer to your device’s operating system instructions for more details.

Relationship Between Data Privacy and Ad Personalization:

The more data TikTok collects about you, the more precise the ads shown to you will be. By limiting data collection, you reduce the information available to TikTok for advertising purposes, thus reducing the likelihood of seeing ads tailored to your specific interests. This leads to fewer targeted ads but also may mean you’ll still see some ads, but they will be less relevant.

Setting Type	Description	Impact on Ads
In-app Data Collection	Controls data TikTok collects directly within the app	Reduced data leads to less-targeted ads.
Device OS Permissions	Manages access to device features like location and microphone	Restricting permissions prevents data collection, reducing ad personalization.
Ad Preferences	Allows managing ad categories or interests	Removing unwanted interests reduces related ads.

IdentifyingAndReportingInappropriateAds

Protecting yourself and others from inappropriate content is crucial. TikTok has community guidelines to ensure a safe environment. If you encounter ads that violate these guidelines, reporting them helps maintain a better experience for everyone.

Identifying Inappropriate Ads:

Misleading or deceptive ads: Ads making false claims or promising unrealistic results.
Harmful or offensive ads: Ads promoting hate speech, violence, or illegal activities.
Inappropriate content: Ads containing sexually suggestive content, nudity, or profanity.
Ads targeting children inappropriately: Ads featuring content unsuitable for children.

Reporting Inappropriate Ads:

Locate the ad: Find the ad you wish to report within the TikTok app.
Open ad information: Usually, there’s an ‘i’ icon or ‘Learn more’ button on the ad. Tap on it.
Find the reporting option: Look for options like ‘Report ad’ or a similar button. It might be at the bottom or within a menu.
Select the reason: Choose the reason that best describes why the ad is inappropriate. TikTok provides categories to help you report accurately.
Submit the report: After choosing a reason and providing any additional details (optional), submit your report.

Why Report?

Your report helps TikTok review and remove ads that violate their policies.
Reporting contributes to a safer and more positive experience for all users.
It supports TikTok’s efforts in maintaining community standards.

For more information, refer to TikTok’s advertising policies:TikTok Advertising Policies

You explored several methods to curb unwanted TikTok ads, ranging from using built-in settings to employing third-party apps. Remember, completely blocking ads might hinder TikTok’s operations and impact creators who rely on ad revenue for income.

Finding a balance is key. Explore the native ad settings first. If those aren’t enough, consider browser extensions carefully, understanding their potential limitations.

Final Thoughts:

Regularly review your TikTok privacy settings to fine-tune your ad preferences and data sharing.
Be mindful of the apps you install and their permissions. Read reviews before downloading ad blockers.
If you’re concerned about privacy, explore methods to minimize data collection without resorting to extreme ad-blocking measures that may compromise the platform’s functionality.