TikTok has officially announced a major update to its Community Guidelines, with a strong focus on AI-generated content, misinformation, and improved user safety. These changes will take effect on September 13, 2025, and will impact how creators produce, label, and distribute their content.
In this guide, we'll break down what's new, why it matters, and what you need to do to avoid account restrictions or bans.
Why TikTok Updated Its Community Guidelines
TikTok says the goal of this update is to make its rules:
Clearer — simpler, easier-to-understand language.
More transparent — with clear explanations of enforcement actions.
Aligned with community expectations — reflecting cultural and regional norms.
The platform has also introduced "rules-at-a-glance" summaries so creators can quickly understand each policy without reading long documents.
Key Changes You Need to Know
1. Stricter Rules on AI-Generated Content and Misinformation
TikTok now prohibits misleading AI content, even if it has labels.
This includes AI-generated videos or edited content that could mislead the public or harm individuals.
Broader coverage than before — moving beyond "fake authoritative sources" and "false depictions of public figures."
Tip for creators: Always label AI-generated or heavily edited content and avoid topics involving public crises, politics, or misleading impersonations.
2. No Automation or Bot Manipulation
The platform bans automation tools, scripts, or hacks that bypass TikTok's systems.
Violations can lead to content removal, account suspension, or permanent bans.
If your account is banned, creating a new one to bypass restrictions is also prohibited.
Tip for creators: Avoid third-party tools that promise follower boosts, automated comments, or "engagement hacks."
3. Unified Rules on Regulated Goods and Services
TikTok has merged rules on:
Gambling
Alcohol
Tobacco
Drugs
Firearms & dangerous weapons
These are now under one "Regulated goods and services" policy for easier reference.
4. Expanded Safety Rules for Platform Features
The Accounts and Features section now covers:
Direct Messaging
Comments
TikTok LIVE
TikTok Shop
Creators will see clearer safety measures for each of these features.
How Creators Can Stay Compliant (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Review the "Rules-at-a-Glance"
Before posting, check TikTok's summarized policy page.
Bookmark the official TikTok Community Guidelines for quick access.
Step 2: Use TikTok's Safety Features
Enable comment filters.
Use keyword filters to block harmful or spammy terms.
Manage direct messages via privacy settings.
Step 3: Label AI Content
Add captions like "AI-generated" or "Simulated footage."
Avoid deepfake representations of real people without consent.
Step 4: Avoid Regulated Goods Promotion
If unavoidable (e.g., travel vlog with alcohol in the scene), avoid promotional angles.
Step 5: Regularly Check for Policy Updates
TikTok updates guidelines multiple times per year—keep track to avoid unintentional violations.
TikTok's AI and manual review mechanisms have been upgraded
AI + human moderation: TikTok uses AI to detect over 85% of violating content before anyone reports it.
Proactive removals: 99% of harmful content is removed before user reports.
Fair appeals: Creators can appeal removals, with appeal rates staying stable despite increased automation.
Why This Matters for the Future of TikTok Creators
With misinformation and AI-generated content becoming more common, TikTok is taking a proactive stance to protect its community. For creators, this means:
A safer environment for genuine engagement.
Less risk of competing with spam or misleading content.
Higher trust from audiences.
Final Thoughts
TikTok's updated Community Guidelines significantly strengthen regulations against AI-generated content and misinformation, while also streamlining the rules to make it easier for creators to understand and comply with them. The new guidelines take effect September 13, 2025. Review them now so you can adjust your content strategy in advance.
Do you think TikTok's new AI rules will help reduce misinformation, or will they limit creative freedom?
