TikTok users adopt 'cute winter boots' as code for sensitive political discussions

A new TikTok trend, "cute winter boots," has emerged as a code phrase for discussing sensitive political topics. Users adopted it to avoid content moderation after the platform's recent ban was lifted by Donald Trump. TikTok denies any changes to its algorithms, despite user complaints about increased censorship. Many believe that using the phrase allows them to share controversial views without being shadowbanned. Some users have raised concerns that the trend is being misused to share information about ICE raids and organize protests. Critics warn that the phrase may be linked to discussions about violence and illegal activities.