A key feature of TikTok is the ability to send direct messages (DMs) to other users. By default, TikTok only allows DMs from users you follow. However, you can change the settings to allow DMs from anyone on TikTok, regardless of whether you follow them or not.
Just as when you try to message someone on TikTok who doesn’t follow you back, you may see an error saying “Messages cannot be sent since this user isn’t following you,” the same thing happens when others try to message you.
This occurs because TikTok’s default messaging settings only allow messaging between mutual followers. To message non-followers, you need to change your settings to allow DMs from everyone.
In this detailed guide, we’ll show you how to allow DMs from everyone on TikTok for both Android and iPhone devices.
How to Allow DMs From Everyone on TikTok on Android
Here are the steps to allow DMs from any TikTok user on your Android device:
Step 1: Open Your TikTok Profile
- Launch the TikTok app on your Android phone.
- Tap on the profile icon in the bottom right corner. This will open up your TikTok profile page.
Step 2: Go to Settings
- From your profile page, tap on the 3-dot menu icon in the top right corner.
- Select “Settings and privacy” from the menu.
Step 3: Tap on Privacy
- In the Settings page, tap on “Privacy”.
Step 4: Go to “Messaging”
- Under the Privacy settings, tap on “Messaging”. Here, you should see if you have enabled TikTok direct messaging from everyone or not.
Specifically, you can allow TikTok DMs from:
- Everyone
- Suggested friends
- Friends
- No one
If yours is currently not set to “Everyone,” proceed to step 5 below.
Step 5: Toggle Allow DMs From Everyone
- Tap on the messaging tab and select “Everyone” under “Who can send you messages.”
- This will allow any TikTok user to send you DMs, even if you don’t follow them back.
And that’s it! With just these 5 simple steps, you have enabled DMs from everyone on TikTok on your Android device. Any TikTok user can now send you direct messages.
How to Allow DMs From Everyone on TikTok on iPhone
Here are the steps to allow DMs from any user on TikTok for your iPhone:
Step 1: Open the TikTok App
- Launch the TikTok app on your iPhone.
- Tap on the “Me” tab at the bottom to access your profile.
Step 2: Go to Settings
- Tap on the 3-dot menu icon in the top right corner.
- Select “Settings and privacy” from the menu options.
Step 3: Choose Privacy
- From the Settings page, select “Privacy”.
Step 4: Tap on Safety
- Under Privacy settings, tap on “Safety”.
Step 5: Turn on Allow DMs from Everyone
- Under “Who can send you Direct Messages”, switch on the option for “Everyone”.
- This will permit any TikTok user to send you a DM, even if you don’t follow them.
That’s it! With these simple steps, you have successfully enabled direct messages from any user on TikTok for your iPhone.
Customizing Your DM Settings
While allowing DMs from everyone gives you open communication, you may want to customize your settings:
Filtering Message Requests
Under the DM settings, you can choose to filter all message requests. This will put all new TikTok message requests into a separate Request inbox. You can then review them and accept or delete the requests.
Restricting Words and Phrases
To avoid unwanted DMs, filter specific words or phrases. TikTok will automatically delete incoming messages containing these restricted words.
Blocking Users
If you receive an abusive or inappropriate DM, you can block that user to avoid further messages. Their messages will no longer reach your inbox.
Limiting Who Can Comment
Adjust the comment settings on your videos to “Friends” or turn comments off. This prevents unwanted DMs via commenting.
Making Account Private
You can restrict your account and videos to only followers. This reduces open DMs but limits your reach.
Ignoring Messages
Rather than blocking users, you can simply leave their message requests unopened and ignored. They will stay out of your main inbox.
By customizing these options, you can find the right balance of open communication while limiting unwanted interactions.
The Benefits of Allowing DMs from Everyone
Here are some benefits that come with allowing direct messages from any user on TikTok:
Increased Discovery
Opening your DMs allows new users to contact you who may not follow you yet. This helps you get discovered by a wider audience.
Build Relationships
Two-way messaging helps create real connections with your supporters and fans on TikTok.
Share Content
Users can easily share viral videos, memes, and content directly with you instead of public commenting.
Collaboration Opportunities
Other creators can propose collaborations, give shoutouts, or share content via direct messaging.
Customer Outreach
If you have a business profile, enabling open DMs allows potential customers to inquire about products, pricing, collabs, etc.
Receive Feedback
Your viewers can share direct feedback about your content to help shape future videos.
By enabling messages from everyone, you open the door to new connections, opportunities, and information sharing on TikTok.
Risks of Allowing DMs from Everyone on TikTok
While open DMs can provide benefits, there are also potential risks to keep in mind:
Abuse and Harassment
Exposing your DMs widely exposes you to abusive behavior, bullying, harassment, and explicit content from strangers.
Spam Messages
You may receive an influx of spam messages promoting shady products, websites, and services. This can be annoying.
Phishing Scams
Scammers may use direct messaging to execute phishing attempts to steal your personal information or hack your account.
Inappropriate Content
Offensive, disturbing, dangerous or inappropriate content may be sent directly to you by malicious users.
Minors at Risk
For teens and younger creators, open DMs pose safety concerns like grooming by predators. Parental controls are essential.
Overwhelming Volume
A high volume of messages may be difficult to manage if you suddenly gain a lot of new followers and attention.
While the benefits can be substantial, make sure to use caution and adjust settings accordingly to mitigate risks. Implement moderation, blocking, filtering and account privating where prudent.
Tips for Managing Open DMs on TikTok
Here are some tips to help manage the influx of direct messages from enabling messaging for all TikTok users:
Turn Off Notifications
Mute conversation notifications to avoid constant disruptions. Check messages on your own schedule.
Set Boundaries
Use your bio and auto-reply message to set communication boundaries for DMs you will respond to.
Moderate Messages
Check all message requests and decline or block abusive senders. Delete offensive messages.
Ask Followers to DM
If overwhelmed, post a video asking only followers to DM right now while you build strategy.
Schedule Time
Set aside dedicated time each day to catch up on messages and build conversations.
Promote Account as Private
If open DMs backfire, revert to a private account and promote you are checking DMs from followers only.
Use Auto Responses
Create saved auto-response messages to frequently asked questions to reduce strain.
Don’t Share Personal Details
Avoid sharing private info like phone number or address to protect your identity and safety.
Report Violations
Use TikTok reporting tools if DMs violate community guidelines. Block, delete and do not engage.
The key is being proactive about managing your messaging experience. Set boundaries, moderate content, and leverage tools to continue engaging safely.
Frequently Asked Questions About TikTok DMs
Here are answers to some common questions around receiving direct messages from everyone on TikTok:
How do I know if someone read my TikTok DM?
Unlike other platforms, TikTok does not show read receipts if someone has seen your DM. The only indication is if they reply back.
Can I delete messages I’ve sent to someone on TikTok?
Yes, you can delete a direct message you’ve already sent by pressing and holding the message you want to delete. An option will appear to remove the message.
Is there a limit to how many DMs I can send on TikTok?
Currently there is no known limit to how many DMs you can send per day. However, spamming an excessive amount continuously may trigger restrictions.
Can I report someone who sent me an inappropriate DM?
Yes, you can report a TikTok user or specific messages by long-pressing their message and choosing “report.” You can select reasons like spam, abuse, bullying, etc.
Can I get blocked by someone on TikTok if I DM them?
Yes, other users can block you which would prevent you from messaging them further. Continue respectful communication to avoid getting blocked.
How do I hide my messages without blocking someone?
You can mute a TikTok conversation by long-pressing the message thread and choosing “hide.” This will keep you from seeing further messages.
Is there a way to DM someone on TikTok who isn’t following me?
No, you can only initiate a DM with someone who already follows you. To message non-followers, you need to allow DMs from everyone.
Can I filter DM message requests on TikTok?
Yes, you can filter new message requests on TikTok. Go to your settings > Privacy > Safety and toggle on “Filter all messages requests.”
Enabling direct messaging from everyone on TikTok can greatly expand your reach and connections. Approach with caution, use available settings, and implement these management tips. Maintain your safety while opening up conversations on TikTok.
