TikTok has swiftly managed to become a viral social media sensation in India thanks to many of its features that make it immensely desirable among the youth. The relatively new app has already started posing a serious competition to the likes of Facebook and Instagram in the global markets. However, we cannot forget that TikTok has had its share of troubles in India due to many controversies - especially safety-related - linked to the social media app. However, TikTok offers a few features that it hopes would help its 200 million users in India in ensuring their safety on the platform. Let's take a look at these features. 

TikTok safety features

Restricted mode

TikTok offers a feature called restricted mode. It is an optional account setting to limit the content that may not be appropriate for teenagers. TikTok does not allow underage users to create an account on TikTok - below the age of 13. TikTok's Restricted Mode feature is activated using a password, which will be valid only for 30 days.

How to enable Restricted Mode on TikTok

Step 1: Go to TikTok app and tap the profile icon in the bottom-right corner
Step 2: Tap the three dots menu in the top-right corner
Step 3: Tap 'Digital Wellbeing' under the 'General' tab
Step 4: Now, tap 'Enable Restricted Mode' on your screen
Step 5: Set a 4-digit passcode and tap the Red arrow icon
Step 6: Enter and confirm the passcode once again

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Screen time management

TikTok offers a self-control feature that allows users to set a time limit on their TikTok usage. If you exceed your screen-time, TikTok will prompt you to enter a password before you can continue using the app.

How to enable screen time management on TikTok

Step 1: Go to TikTok app and tap the profile icon in the bottom-right corner
Step 2: Tap the three dots menu in the top-right corner
Step 3: Tap 'Digital Wellbeing' under the 'General' tab
Step 4: Now, tap 'Screen Time Management' on your screen
(By default, the time limit will be set to 60 minutes)
Step 5: You can customise the time limit here
Step 6: Tap 'Enable Screen Time Management'

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Filter comments

TIkTok also allows users to manage comments by filtering words they deem undesirable. Each user can choose up to 30 keywords in Hindi and English.

How to filter comments on TikTok

Step 1: Go to TikTok app and tap the profile icon in the bottom-right corner
Step 2: Tap the three dots menu in the top-right corner
Step 3: Tap 'Privacy and Safety' and then tap 'Filter Comments'
Step 4: Tap the switch at the top of the screen and tap 'Add Keywords'
Step 5: Type up to 30 keywords you want to filter

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Suicide prevention helpline details

TikTok also encourages users to get in touch with Suicide-prevention helpline when needed. The details are as follows:

• United States: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255
• Brazil: CVV 141
• Canada: Local Crisis Center
• France: O.S Amitié 01 42 96 26 26
• Germany: Telefonseelsorge 0800 111 0 111
• Italy: Telefono Azzurro 19696
• United Kingdom: Samaritans 08457 90 90 90
• Russia: Helpline 8-800-2000-122
• For the rest of the world, please visit the International Association for Suicide Prevention to find a crisis centre in your area.