On the TikTok platform, the numerical expression “4+4” serves as a coded reference, most commonly functioning as a request for a user’s preferred method of communication outside of the app itself. The sum, equaling eight, is often used as a discreet way to ask for a user’s phone number, circumventing potential platform restrictions on directly soliciting personal contact information. For instance, a user might comment “4+4?” on a video, signaling interest in exchanging numbers.
The appeal of employing this numerical code lies in its ability to maintain a level of ambiguity, avoiding direct violations of platform guidelines regarding the sharing of personal details. The method offers a benefit by allowing users to express interest in connecting further without explicitly stating their intention, potentially bypassing content moderation filters. This approach has become popular due to its simplicity and relatively low risk of detection, providing a straightforward way to facilitate off-platform interaction.