TikTok rolls out a new Security Checkup tool. Here's how it works

TikTok is a few weeks away from the end of the 75-day extension that President Donald Trump granted the service in January. The extension followed a temporary ban for “national security” reasons. 

As potential offers for TikTok roll in from potential US suitors and unprecedented levels of White House involvement continue behind the scenes, the Chinese-owned social media platform is attempting to fix the concerns that prompted this complex situation in the first place. 

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On Monday, TikTok launched a new Security Checkup tool that the company said allows users to “easily review and update” their account’s security settings from an all-in-one dashboard. According to the company, users can access the new tool from their profile by selecting “Settings and privacy” and tapping “Security and permissions”.

Users can follow a step-by-step Security Checkup guide that details how the tool encourages users to keep their accounts protected: 

1. Lock down your login: “Link both a phone number and email address to ensure a backup login method.”
2. Double your defenses: “Enable 2-Step Verification for an extra layer of security when logging in from an unfamiliar device.”
3. Keep tabs on your devices: “Regularly check which devices are logged in to your account and remove any that are unrecognized or no longer in use.”
4. Spot suspicious activity fast: “TikTok proactively detects unusual account behavior and flags it in the ‘Security & permissions’ settings for user review.” 
5. Go password-free with passkey: “Use device-based authentication methods like Face ID or Touch Unlock for a secure and seamless sign-in.”

TikTok also emphasized that it will monitor user accounts for unusual behavior and flag errant activity under the “Security and permissions” tab. 

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Ultimately, the added security measures enable regular check-ins and oversight of which devices are logged in to an account. These measures should help users to remove any devices that are no longer in use or unrecognizable. The tool will also recommend that users enable device-based authentication methods like Face ID or Touch Unlock for a secure and easier-to-manage login experience. 

The feature is similar to tools offered by TikTok’s most prominent rival, Instagram, and Google, with its Security Checkup. TikTok seems focused on enabling child digital safety and protections for users under 16. 

Despite the uncertainties surrounding the app’s future, TikTok has continuously updated its app with new offerings, such as new teen safety features. TikTok has attempted to create tools and protections for teens and parental controls, including account family pairings.

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Furthermore, along with the overarching national security concerns surrounding the social media platform, the app’s potential impact on children’s mental health and harmful digital habits is becoming an increasingly politicized issue. 

We will have to see if these new measures are enough to quell concerns as online child safety laws become another terrain for battle between Big Tech companies and legislators.