A virtual private network (VPN) reroutes internet traffic through a server in a location selected by the user, masking the user’s actual IP address. While VPNs can offer increased privacy and access to geographically restricted content, some applications, including TikTok, may not function correctly when used in conjunction with one.
The ineffectiveness of VPNs with certain platforms stems from a variety of factors. Platforms may implement sophisticated anti-VPN measures to enforce regional restrictions on content or comply with legal and regulatory requirements. These measures can include detecting and blocking known VPN server IP addresses, employing GPS location data to verify a user’s physical location, or analyzing network traffic patterns to identify VPN usage.