Unofficial TikTok Downloads Surge in the US Amid Ban Concerns

The uncertainty surrounding TikTok’s future in the US has led to a surge in unofficial TikTok downloads. With Apple and Google blocking new downloads from their app stores, many users are turning to sideloading and VPNs to bypass restrictions.

How Are Users Downloading TikTok?

TikTok remains available for use in the US, despite the Supreme Court upholding a law that may force a ban or sale of the app. However, Apple and Google have blocked new downloads, making it difficult for users to install the app on new devices.

This has driven users to third-party platforms, often referred to as black market app stores, to get TikTok on their phones. These platforms facilitate sideloading, a method of installing apps outside of official stores.

The Rise of Sideloading and VPN Use

Sideloading services like Signulous and AppDB have seen record traffic. According to Signulous, more than 120,000 people have used its service to install TikTok on iPhones, with peak download rates reaching 2,000 per hour.

At the same time, VPN usage in the US has skyrocketed, as users attempt to bypass the restrictions by masking their location. Google Trends data shows that searches for “VPN” hit an all-time high last month.

Is Sideloading TikTok Legal?

While downloading TikTok is not illegal, distributing the app is against the law under the new legislation. However, both President Donald Trump and former President Joe Biden have indicated they will not enforce the ban, creating a legal grey area for third-party app providers.

Unofficial app stores, like Signulous and AppDB, operate by signing users up as software developers and charging a fee for sideloading services.

The Risks of Unofficial TikTok Downloads

Despite its popularity, sideloading poses security risks, as unofficial app stores lack the robust security measures of Apple’s App Store and Google Play.

Apple has long warned against sideloading, arguing that apps not vetted through its store could expose users to:

Malware and security threats
Compromised user data
Fraudulent in-app transactions

While some users report that TikTok works normally after sideloading, the process increases the risk of downloading faulty or malicious software.

How TikTok is Responding

Interestingly, TikTok itself is enabling sideloading. On Monday, the company released a download kit for Android, making it easier for users to install the app outside of Google Play.

Meanwhile, Apple continues to push back against third-party app stores, arguing that they undermine security and consumer protection. However, in the European Union, new regulations have forced Apple to allow alternative app marketplaces since March last year.

What’s Next for TikTok in the US?

With the final decision on TikTok expected by April, millions of users are finding alternative ways to keep using the platform. Whether through VPNs, sideloading, or potential future workarounds, it’s clear that TikTok fans aren’t ready to give up just yet.