TikTok Missing from App Stores, a Boon for Opportunists

TikTok is currently missing from app download platforms, a situation that some are attempting to capitalize on for profit.

TikTok Ban in the US: A Boon for Online Resellers

Despite a temporary lift on the TikTok ban in the US, the app remains persona non grata and is still missing from app stores. This has led to an unexpected trend: the sale of phones pre-installed with TikTok at astronomical prices on online platforms like eBay.

Smartphones at Exorbitant Prices

Smartphone owners who already have TikTok installed can continue using the app freely. Capitalizing on this, some opportunists are selling these TikTok “infused” phones at inflated prices, ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.

While some of these prices may appear reasonable, others are clearly scams or exploit TikTok addiction. For instance, an iPhone 14 Pro Max is listed at nearly a million dollars, and a Samsung Galaxy A14 starts at 500,000 dollars.

Unscrupulous Sellers

Many of these overpriced listings come from accounts with no prior sales or positive reviews, suggesting a lack of good faith. However, some are posted by long-established accounts with many positive reviews.

Alternatives Exist

For those determined to access TikTok, more affordable alternatives are available. Purchasing one of the best Android phones for under $300 could bypass the ban, as well as using a web browser. Nonetheless, buyers should remain vigilant against potential online scams.