TikTok Shop is a relatively new addition to the platform. Launched in 2021 it offers users a way to buy and sell both digital and physical products without ever leaving the platform.

While it’s known for its viral bargains, it’s unfortunately also known for its occasional scams.

So is it safe to order off TikTok Shop?

Whether you’re a buyer or a seller, here’s what you need to know.

Key Points:

• What Is TikTok Shop?

• Why Don’t I See TikTok Shop In My TikTok App?

• Why Is TikTok Shop So Cheap?

• Is TikTok Shop Good Quality?

• Is TikTok Shop Safe For Debit & Credit Cards?

• Does TikTok Shop Share My Data?

• Tips For Buyers: How To Shop Safely On TikTok Shop

• Tips For Sellers: How To Sell Safely On TikTok Shop

• Frequently Asked Questions

What Is TikTok Shop?

TikTok Shop is TikTok’s own e-commerce platform, built in to the mobile app and desktop site.

It allows creators to highlight specific products and earn affiliate commissions, while users can shop for products without ever leaving the app.

You don’t have to be a creator to sell on TikTok Shop, since it allows third party sellers to list both digital and physical products.

The only requirements at the time of this article are being at least 18 years of age, and holding proof of US residency. Additionally, buyers and sellers must comply with TikTok’s Terms of Service.

Why Don't I See TikTok Shop In My TikTok App?

At the moment, TikTok Shop is only available for users based in the US.

Use The Right Device

If you’re not seeing TikTok Shop and you’re in the US, first make sure you’re viewing the app through the correct device.

You’ll only be able to view TikTok Shop from the desktop site or mobile app from phones. Currently some users have reported that tablet devices don’t show TikTok Shop in the app.

Update Your App

Make sure your TikTok app is updated to the most recent version. Older versions of the app may not have access to the Shop feature.

Update Your Location

If you were previously in another country but are now in the US, it might take TikTok some time to recognize this and update your app accordingly.

To update your location, open your profile page and tap the three line menu on the top right corner.

Tap Settings & Privacy.

Tap Privacy.

Tap Location Services.

Ensure that the Permission Settings are set to While Using. You may have to open device settings to change this.

Once the location is updated, it may take some time for the app to update your features.

Search For TikTok Shop

Sometimes TikTok changes the layout of its menu options. While the Shop feature usually appears on the bottom menu for most mobile users, some report seeing at the top of their homepage.

If you’re not seeing it, try searching up “tiktok shop store” or simply search for the product you’re interested in and tap the Shop tab on the top.

Why Is TikTok Shop So Cheap?

TikTok Shop’s popularity has a lot to do with how affordable certain items are. In fact, many listings are just a few cents and while that may seem too good to be true, there is a reason for it.

The first reason is that TikTok actually subsidizes sellers through the Shop in order to lure in buyers with low prices. This costs them in the short term, but often results in long term loyalty.

Along with this, many of the items sold are bought in bulk and mass produced (think Temu, Wish, and AliExpress).

And of course, sometimes things really are too good to be true, which we’ll get into shortly.

Is TikTok Shop Good Quality?

There’s no simple answer for this, because unfortunately it really depends, both on the seller and the specific item.

TikTok Shop prohibits counterfeit items, but that doesn’t mean they’re never present on the platform. The good news is, if you do receive a low-quality or counterfeit item you’re protected by TikTok Shop’s buyer protection policy.

Many of the products sold are also digital, such as PDF guides and ebooks. With these items, the quality really depends on whoever is creating them so it’s usually best to stick with purchasing digital products from creators who you actually trust to provide quality.

Is TikTok Shop Safe For Debit & Credit Cards?

As long as you use the payment processor within TikTok Shop, you’re safe. They offer secure payment processing that encrypts your data.

However, when it comes to online purchases - especially ones you’re unsure of - it’s best to use a credit card rather than a debit card as they offer protections that debit cards don’t, like the ability to dispute charges.

It should go without saying that you should never provide payment information off-platform. If a seller requests that you make your purchase via a third-party site or provides you with a link to click, do not click it and immediately report the seller to TikTok.

Does TikTok Shop Share My Data?

TikTok has different privacy policies for creators and buyers on TikTok Shop.

Buyers

TikTok Shop collections your name, address, contact information, and other details in order to comply with legal requirements. Some of this information is shared with sellers, while other details - such as payment information - is kept private.

You can learn more about the information TikTok collects here.

Sellers

TikTok Shop collects certain information about sellers to comply with legal requirements, and to ensure that sellers are legitimate individuals who are 18 years of age or older and legal residents of the United States.

You can learn more about the information TikTok collects here.

Tips For Buyers: How To Shop Safely On TikTok Shop

Shopping on TikTok Shop is similar to most other e-commerce platforms, though because it has such a high rate of low-quality items and untrustworthy sellers there are a few additional things to keep in mind if you want to shop safely.

Pay Attention To Seller Verification

Verified sellers have been verified by TikTok as trustworthy, meaning that they’re more likely to offer quality items and less likely to take the money and run.

Stick with sellers who have a positive history of happy customers, and avoid sellers who appear out of nowhere with little to no reviews.

Read Reviews

If you’re seeing repeated complaints on a seller’s review page, you might want to avoid them. Read reviews for each shop you’re browsing to make sure that customers report speedy delivery times, quality items, and responsive customer support.

Use Reverse Image Search

Not every item is as it seems on TikTok Shop, which is why you need to be aware of deals that seem too good to be true. Of course, there are plenty of legitimate listings on the site but if you’re unsure whether or not something is a real item or just a drop-shipping scam, you can try using Google’s reverse image search feature to see where else that specific photo is being used.

It’s also a good idea to look up the item on other platforms to ensure that you’re receiving the best price possible before committing.

Use Secure Payments

Finally, always use TikTok’s secure payment system. Never click any links provided by sellers and don’t communicate with them outside of TikTok. You should also avoid giving them personal information through messages - all they need to know is within your order form.

When you do make a payment, stick with PayPal or a credit card for additional buyer protection.

Common Scams To Be Aware Of

While you can you can report a seller and file a dispute to get your money back, it’s always best to avoid the trouble beforehand. Here are a few common scams to keep an eye out for, so you can shop confidently.

Fake products are a big one, and the biggest red flag for this is stock images. That’s why we recommend using reverse image search to look up the photo being used. If you see it used on other sites, that may be a sign that the product isn’t legit.

Misleading descriptions are also common, and while they can be comical (like receiving tiny dollhouse furniture items when you expected the full-size deal), they’re never okay. As always choose verified sellers, read reviews, and avoid buying items that have vague or confusing descriptions.

Non-delivery of items is another issue, but luckily in this case you’re backed by TikTok’s buyer protection which means if you don’t receive the item you can contact customer support and get your money back. Just make sure you used their secure payment processing and didn’t speak to the seller off-platform, since these violate their policy and can backfire on you.

Phishing scams are another common occurrence, which usually involve a seller or user trying to get someone to click a link or give them money off-platform. As long as you stick to the TikTok app and avoid clicking links or handing over personal information, you should be fine.

How To Report Someone On TikTok Shop

If a seller is violating TikTok’s terms of service or being inappropriate in any way, you can report them directly through the app.

To report someone, visit their profile via the TikTok app or desktop site and select the Share button at the top or the three dots next to it if you're on desktop.

From here, select Report.

Select a reason for the report, then select Submit.

Alternatively, go to your order details and select Report then fill in all relevant details. 

Tips For Sellers: How To Sell Safely On TikTok Shop

We’ve explored how buyers can stay safe on TikTok Shop, but what if you’re on the other side of things?

Here are a few things to keep in mind when creating your TikTok Shop storefront and working with customers.

Write Thorough & Accurate Descriptions

In order to protect yourself from dissatisfied customers, make sure you have all your bases covered by writing accurate product titles and descriptions that mention every important detail.

Use High-Quality Images

There’s nothing more offputting than an obvious stock image, so try using higher quality images where possible.

Not only will these encourage more users to buy your item, but it can prevent unhappy customers from filing claims if your images are misleading in any way.

Stay Within The Platform

No matter what, never contact a buyer off-platform or request payment information outside of TikTok. In fact, you shouldn’t be dealing with payment information at all, since TikTok works as the middleman here.

To cover your bases, make sure all communication happens within the TikTok app.

Avoid Phishing Scams

While buyers are often the victims of phishing scams, sellers can be too! To avoid falling prey to these, don’t click any links sent to you or accept any buyer requests outside of TikTok. 

Frequently Asked Questions