TikTok users adopt 'cute winter boots' phrase to discuss politics without censorship

TikTok users are increasingly using the phrases "winter boots" and "cute winter boots" to discuss political topics without facing censorship. This trend emerged as a way to avoid algorithmic bans on political content, especially after Donald Trump's recent inauguration. Videos featuring these phrases cover various political issues, including critiques of Trump and discussions about protests. The term gained popularity on January 25, with millions of views, as users found it a clever way to bypass restrictions on political discourse. The trend may also reflect TikTok's shift towards e-commerce, as users adapt their language to avoid being flagged by the platform's algorithms. This tactic highlights ongoing concerns about shadowbanning and censorship on social media platforms.