TikTok’s Testing Amber Alerts in User Feeds

| Updated on August 20, 2024

TikTok has now partnered with NCMEC (National Center for Missing & Exploited Children) to launch a pilot program that will display Amber Alerts directly within the For You feed. 

This new Amber Alert system will provide more coverage in cases of missing people in the app. 

@ncmec #MISSING Richard was last seen on June 13 in Cresson, #Texas . If you have any info on his whereabouts please call, 1-800-843-5678. #NCMEC ♬ Breaking News Background Music (Basic A)(1001538) – LEOPARD

The above example from NCMEC shows us how missing person alerts are posted in the app. But with the new system, these alerts will get more priority. The new program will ensure that more people in the region see these alerts.

These alerts could prove to be a critical early response for the child as time is of the essence in such cases. 

They are beginning the program in Texas and it would help in boosting awareness of missing persons. With this, more people will be on the lookout for missing persons. 

Also, TikTok has a younger audience, which could prove to be a valuable thing as most of the reports related to missing teens have similar social circles. 

With this, TikTok is looking to provide a utility tool in addition to entertainment. TikTok is now working with relevant organizations to deliver help and assistance in times of crisis. 

As we’ve mentioned above, TikTok Amber Alerts are tested in the Texas region only. Once they are satisfied with the result, they will expand them to more regions.

Manisha Singh

Journalist / Writer


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