TikTok has recently embarked on a new initiative, akin to the Community Notes programs seen in other social media platforms. This feature, known as Footnotes, empowers users to provide additional context, corrections, and supplementary information for posts, primarily on short videos in the U.S.

This move positions TikTok among other apps that have begun embracing user-contributed notes. However, the platform has not completely removed its traditional fact-checking and content moderation mechanisms. Earlier this year, Meta revealed plans for a Community Notes beta, aiming to replace fact-checking methods across Facebook, Instagram, and Threads. Currently, they are accepting contributors from the program’s waitlist. Additionally, YouTube and X (formerly known as Twitter) also maintain active Community Notes programs, with X’s initiative having replaced the option to report misleading information.

According to TikTok’s informational page, Footnotes can solely be appended to public posts, yet they will still be visible even when those posts are set to private. Content creators who are part of the program can contribute footnotes and evaluate those linked to their own videos. To gain visibility, footnotes must receive a rating of “helpful” from contributors, allowing all users to cast votes on them.

Despite these user-driven contributions, TikTok will continue collaborating with organizations accredited by the International Fact-Checking Network (IFCN) to verify the content’s accuracy available on the platform.

Signing Up to Contribute TikTok Footnotes

Individuals in the U.S. can now apply to contribute Footnotes if they are at least 18 years old, have been TikTok users for a minimum of six months, possess a valid email or U.S. phone number, and have not violated community guidelines in the previous six months. TikTok may also reach out to users who meet these criteria, with those accepted into the program being able to start their contributions in the upcoming months.