💡 Ideas & Tips
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Dec 18, 2023
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6 min read
TikTok's international popularity is huge. Statista data shows users spent an average of 23.3 hours per month on Tiktok in 2022.
This is an increase from the previous year's 19.6 hours. TikTok users in the US spend approximately 26.48 hours every month, a 23% increase since 2020. The average in the United Kingdom is more than 27 hours. Excessive TikTok use might have a strong impact on people's mental health and social interactions. One way to curb this addiction is to block TikTok on your iPhone. This article will show you 3 methods to block TikTok on your iPhone.
🔒 3 Simple Methods to Block TikTok on iPhone
One effective way to handle addiction is to cut off the source. Blocking TikTok on your iPhone is an effective way to limit your time on the app. The methods below will help you limit your TikTok screen time and use it for more productive activities.
Method 1: Set up 1 min Daily App Limit for TikTok on your iPhone.
You can use the Screen Time feature to block TikTok on your iPhone. The Screen Time feature tracks your app usage and lets you set limits for specific apps. If TikTok takes up too much of your time or negatively impacts your life, this tool is useful.
To set up app limits for TikTok, follow these steps:
1️⃣ Open the Settings on your iPhone
2️⃣ Scroll down and tap on Screen Time
3️⃣ Tap on "App Limits"
4️⃣ Tap on "Add Limit" and select TikTok (under "Social") from the list of app categories
5️⃣ Set a time limit for TikTok. The minimum is 1 min every day and that's what we choose to "block" TikTok using this Screen Time iPhone feature. Tap on Add and your time limit is complete.
When you set a time limit for TikTok through App Limits, you'll get a notification once that limit is reached.
However, you can still use TikTok after this by selecting "Ignore Limit", that's why the 2nd method is way more effective if you feel you would be tempted to ignore the limit.
Method 2: Jomo (The Easiest and most Effective Way to Block TikTok)
Jomo is a straightforward yet powerful app blocker. This app aims to help you limit your phone usage, supporting healthy digital health. To use Jomo to disable TikTok on your iPhone, follow these 4 steps:
To use Jomo to block TikTok on your iPhone, follow these 4 steps:
1️⃣ Install Jomo app through the App Store and launch the app
2️⃣ Go in "Rules" and then tap on the "+" to select "Start blocking session"
3️⃣ Choose "App blocked" and select "TikTok" in "Social" to block TikTok
4️⃣ In "Timing" change "Scheduled" to "Always on"
5️⃣ Tap on Start to start blocking TikTok
Jomo also helps you analyze your usage pattern to understand better where most of the consumed time goes. It will also guide you in recognizing patterns that you can change to improve your screen-time habits. We recommend you use the Jomo app to effectively block TikTok on your iPhone. It's user-friendly and promotes digital health and well-being.
PS: In Jomo, you can also use the pre-made template "Conscious use" to block TikTok. This way, you can block TikTok by default and only unlock it when you REALLY need it.
Method 3: TikTok App Limit
During its development, TikTok added a feature to define a time limit. Here's how to activate this feature:
1️⃣ Open TikTok and go to "Profile"
2️⃣ Tap on the 3 bars icon, then open the "Settings and Privacy" of TikTok
3️⃣ Go to "Screen Time"
4️⃣ Define your daily screen time and set up a password. After the time limit, you must enter this password to continue using TikTok.
This method can be effective for some very strong-minded people. But often, after trying it, the temptation to enter the code (displayed on the gray blocking message) overrides reason. That's why the first two methods are more effective.
On the other hand, if you want to ban TikTok completely from your Internet network, follow the bonus method below.
Method Bonus: Router
Blocking TikTok on a router level effectively restricts access to the app across all devices connected to your home network. This can be particularly useful for families with children or individuals who want to limit their TikTok usage.
Implementing a block at the router level is a lasting solution compared to just deleting the app from a device. The network-level block remains effective even if TikTok is reinstalled on any device. The specific steps involved will vary depending on your router model, but the general process is as follows:
1️⃣ Access Router Settings
Look for the IP address of the router. It is usually printed in a sticker affixed to the device. Open any web browser and enter your router’s IP address in the address bar to access the router’s admin page. Enter your router's login credentials.
2️⃣ Configure Parental Controls
Upon logging in, go to the Parental Controls page. Its exact location will depend on your router’s model but check for any available features like “Parental Controls”, or “Web Filtering,”.
Within the Parental Controls settings, create a new rule or entry. This rule will block specific domains and IP addresses associated with TikTok. In the rule's settings, enter the following TikTok domains and IP addresses:
.tiktok.com
.tiktokcdn.com
.musically.com
These domains and IP addresses cover various aspects of TikTok's infrastructure, ensuring comprehensive blocking. Save the rule and apply the changes. This will activate the blocking of TikTok for all devices connected to your router.
3️⃣ Verify Blocking
Connect your iPhone to the Wi-Fi network you just configured. Open the TikTok app on your device. If the blocking has been successful, the TikTok app will not load or display any content. When you try to access TikTok, you'll see an error message saying the connection is blocked.
Why is it Better to Limit Your Time On TikTok for Your Mental Health?
TikTok's endless stream of short videos and addictive nature can significantly contribute to mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and social isolation. By cutting down on your TikTok usage, you can avoid the harmful effects of constantly comparing yourself to others, a frequent issue on social media that can negatively impact self-esteem and body image.
Moreover, by limiting your time on TikTok, you can escape its relentless stimulation and distraction. This change can enhance your focus on the present, allow you to participate in more fulfilling activities, and boost your overall mood.
Additionally, less time on TikTok can lead to more real-world interactions and strengthen relationships. Engaging more with friends, family, and loved ones can foster community, support, and authentic connection, which are vital for good mental health.
You need to take practical actions to block TikTok on your iPhone. This will help you manage your digital well-being and mental health. Excessive TikTok use can be harmful, so it's essential to set limits.
Avoid social media and focus on activities that make you happy. Blocking TikTok on your iPhone will balance your life by striking equilibrium in your interactions in reality and on the internet. Keep in mind that your mental well-being is something worth being concerned about.
