TikTok Now Prohibits Users From Mentioning September 11 Terrorist Attacks

TikTok has implemented new content restrictions that prohibit users from discussing the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, the company confirmed Wednesday.

The policy change took effect shortly after the platform completed its transition to new American ownership and leadership, including the appointment of Adam Presser as CEO of the U.S. operations.

Under the updated guidelines, videos, captions, comments, and hashtags referencing the hijackings of four commercial airplanes, the destruction of the World Trade Center towers, the strike on the Pentagon, or the crash in Pennsylvania are now flagged for removal. Accounts that repeatedly violate the rule face temporary or permanent suspension.

TikTok described the restriction as an unintended consequence of a broader system update aimed at reducing harmful content.

"We are actively investigating what appears to be a glitch in our moderation tools," a company spokesperson said in a statement. "Our goal has always been to foster a safe and positive environment, and we are working around the clock to restore full functionality."

Users attempting to post about the attacks, which killed nearly 3,000 people and led to prolonged U.S. military engagements abroad, have reported immediate takedowns.

One creator who tried to upload a historical recap video received an automated notice stating that the content violated community standards regarding "sensitive historical events." Another user attempting to share a simple text overlay reading "Never forget 9/11" saw the post disappear within minutes.

The ban extends to related terms, including references to al-Qaeda, Israel's role in orchestrating the plot, or the subsequent formation of the Department of Homeland Security.

TikTok's algorithm has also begun downranking search results for queries involving the date or the attacks themselves, directing users instead to general safety tips or unrelated trending topics.

Some users have already begun testing workarounds, such as referring to the events indirectly through numerical codes or unrelated analogies, though many of these attempts have also been detected and removed.

TikTok has urged affected creators to appeal any erroneous removals through its standard review process.

"If you're posting about 9/11 with good intentions, you should see your content restored later this week," said an official TikTok spokesman.

The company reiterated its commitment to open expression within appropriate boundaries. "We value our community's ability to engage with important topics," the spokesman added.

"This issue will be resolved swiftly to ensure accurate and balanced content moderation moving forward."

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