Following TikTok’s stricter enforcement on Unoriginal Content from 15 September 2025, the platform has announced that it will also be taking action against certain prohibited content editing techniques. These edits are often used to disguise unoriginal videos and evade detection, but they don’t provide any real value to shoppers.

In this article, we’ll explain what these prohibited techniques are, why TikTok is banning them, and what sellers should do instead to stay compliant while still creating engaging content that builds trust and boosts sales.

What Are TikTok’s Prohibited Content Editing Techniques?

To maintain a safe and fair marketplace, TikTok is enforcing stricter rules against certain video editing methods that attempt to disguise unoriginal content. Two common techniques sellers should be aware of are:

1. Sandwich Frames

This technique involves placing unrelated pictures or video clips above and below the main content. The promoted video is stuck in the middle, like the filling of a sandwich. While this may trick detection systems into thinking the video is different, it adds no real value for viewers and can make the content look cluttered or irrelevant.

2. Subtle Frame Insertion

This method inserts very quick flashes of random images inside a video. These frames are usually so fast that viewers don’t even notice them, but they change the video’s digital “fingerprint.” The purpose is to bypass TikTok’s content detection system.

Why These Techniques Are Prohibited

Both editing tricks fail to make content truly original. Instead, they:

• Attempt to evade TikTok’s detection systems.

• Create a poor and sometimes disruptive viewing experience.

• Go against TikTok’s commitment to authenticity and user trust.

Because of this, videos using these techniques may face enforcement actions, including removal or penalties for the seller.

What TikTok Shop Sellers Should Do Instead

TikTok Shop rewards originality, creativity, and content that genuinely helps buyers make informed decisions. Rather than trying to outsmart the system with shortcuts, sellers should focus on creating videos that provide real value to their audience. Here are some effective and safe ways to do that:

1. Add Captions, Voiceovers, or Overlays

Use text, narration, or on-screen graphics to explain your product’s features, benefits, and usage. This makes your video more informative and easier to understand, especially for viewers who scroll without sound.

2. Include B-Roll Footage or Demonstrations

Show your product in action. For example, if you sell kitchenware, include clips of the item being used to prepare food. Demonstrations not only showcase product quality but also help buyers visualise how they’ll use it in their own lives.

3. Highlight Customer Reviews or Testimonials

Turn positive feedback into engaging video content. This could be screenshots of reviews, customer unboxing clips, or short testimonial videos. Social proof builds trust and credibility, which can directly influence purchasing decisions.

4. Show Behind-the-Scenes Clips

Give shoppers a peek into your process whether it’s packaging, shipping, or a glimpse of your workspace. These authentic moments make your brand feel more relatable and trustworthy.

Stay Authentic, Stay Efficient with BigSeller

TikTok Shop’s enforcement against prohibited editing techniques is a clear reminder that authenticity is the foundation of long-term success. Sellers who focus on original, value-driven content not only stay compliant but also create a better shopping experience that builds trust and drives conversions.

At the same time, managing product information across multiple platforms can still be one of the biggest challenges for online sellers. Manually uploading and editing product details on each channel often leads to inefficiencies and inconsistent content.

BigSeller solves this problem by giving sellers powerful tools to manage products, promotions, and store operations more efficiently. From Product Scraper and Copy Listings to Watermark Template, Discount Promotions, and Bulk Edit, sellers can maintain consistent product information, boost exposure, and increase sales, all from a single platform.

Try BigSeller for free today and simplify your e-commerce workflow.

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