TikTok has released an updated set of Community Guidelines, consolidating and clarifying rules on misinformation, gambling, alcohol, tobacco, drugs, and weapons into a unified policy on regulated goods and services.

The new update aims to strengthen TikTok’s efforts in creating a safe environment for users to create, discover, and connect. According to Sandeep Grover, TikTok’s Global Head of Safety and Security, safety remains a core principle of the platform, nurturing creativity, authenticity, and inspiration.

The revised guidelines demonstrate TikTok's commitment to transparency and user protection, featuring clearer, more accessible language and new policies. These updates continue TikTok's broader efforts to foster trust and safety, including new features aimed at teenagers, families, creators, and the wider TikTok community.

Key changes in TikTok's guidelines

Grover noted that TikTok revised its existing guidelines to make them more understandable and easier to follow. These changes were shaped through conversations and workshops with creators to better understand their needs. Input was also collected from experts and advisory councils in over 30 countries.

Creators particularly recommended using simpler language, transparent definitions, and consistent enforcement mechanisms. In response, TikTok introduced a new “Policy Overview” section that offers summaries of each rule to improve accessibility.

Among the major updates are new rules to address misinformation, refinements to existing policies on bullying and weight-related content, and the merging of separate policies on gambling, alcohol, tobacco, drugs, firearms, and other dangerous items into a single policy on controlled goods and services.

TikTok has also expanded the “Accounts and Features” section to explain safety measures for features such as direct messaging, comments, LIVE sessions, and TikTok Shop.

Furthermore, the platform has increased transparency around how its rules are enforced, including responses to emerging threats during crises and regional adaptations that align with local values and cultural norms.

How TikTok enforces the rules

Alongside the updated guidelines, TikTok is also strengthening moderation training to ensure its safety teams and AI systems implement the rules consistently and accurately.

TikTok continues to invest in content moderation technologies, including artificial intelligence, to improve enforcement efficiency. Currently, over 85% of policy violations are detected and handled automatically, with 99% of flagged content removed before users report it. The platform also allows creators to appeal content removals or restrictions, with appeal rates remaining stable despite the increasing use of AI moderation.

TikTok will begin notifying all users about these updated Community Guidelines, which will officially take effect on September 13. “We encourage all members of the community to take the time to understand the new policies and tools available to ensure TikTok remains a safe and positive space for creativity and discovery,” said Grover.

Thai Khang