TikTok account security: 2-step verification, device management and recovering a hacked account

For many sellers and creators, a TikTok account is a real asset: followers, videos, orders. Losing it isn't just annoying, it can hit your income. Fortunately TikTok now offers solid security tools, and setting them up takes about ten minutes.

Start with Security Checkup

In March 2025 TikTok introduced Security Checkup, bringing key settings into one place. Go to Settings and privacy → Security & permissions. TikTok walks you through:

• Adding backup login methods: phone number and email, so you have a way back in.
• Turning on 2-step verification for logins from unfamiliar devices.
• Managing devices: seeing and removing devices you don't recognise.
• Security alerts: TikTok flags unusual account behaviour for you to review.
• Passkeys: signing in with Face ID, fingerprint or your device PIN.

Turn on 2-step verification

2-step verification adds an extra check whenever someone logs into your account from a new or unfamiliar device. Even if your password leaks, it's much harder to get in.

In the app:

1. Go to Profile → menu icon → Settings and privacy.
2. Tap Security → 2-step verification.
3. Choose your methods: phone, email, authenticator app or password, and follow the steps.

Tip: where possible, use an authenticator app (Google Authenticator, Microsoft Authenticator, etc.) rather than SMS alone, and add a passkey on your main phone.

Review logged-in devices regularly

Under Security → Manage devices you'll see the phones and computers logged into your account. So:

• Remove unknown or old devices right away.
• Check again after lending your phone or using a shared computer.
• If you work in a team, avoid sharing passwords; use TikTok's official business tools instead.

Signs your account was hacked

According to TikTok Support, your account may be compromised if:

• Your password or phone number was changed.
• Your username or nickname was changed.
• Videos were deleted, or posted without your permission.
• Messages were sent that you didn't write.

Recovering a hacked TikTok account

1. Try resetting your password with a phone number or email that is still linked.
2. If that fails, use Report a problem in the app: Settings and privacy → Report a problem, pick the account and login category, then Need more help to submit a form.
3. If you can't get into the app, use the feedback form on TikTok Support with your username and linked email and phone.
4. Reply to TikTok's emails from the same address you used for the request, with accurate information.
5. Once you're back in: change your password, remove unknown devices, check your email and phone, and turn on 2-step verification.

TikTok advises taking a moment before responding, sharing personal information, downloading files or clicking links from unexpected requests. Don't trust "TikTok support" DMs or phone numbers left in comments.

Good habits

• A unique TikTok password, not reused anywhere.
• Secure the email linked to TikTok too; losing the email often means losing the account.
• Don't log into unknown third-party apps or sites promising "more followers".
• Keep the app updated to get the latest security features.

How AT Media can help

If you own a TikTok account that was taken over or locked and don't know where to start, AT Media can help you prepare the right information and follow TikTok's official support process. We explain the status and our fee up front, and keep your information private.