Rose Atieno, widely known as Nyako, a popular content creator on TikTok, has recently sparked a debate on the platform’s gift system, calling it into question during a TikTok Live session. In her candid conversation, Nyako expressed deep concerns about the virtual gifts that users send to creators, often as a form of appreciation. While these gifts can be converted into real money, Nyako warns that the source of the money may not always be as innocent as it seems.
TikTok’s gifting feature allows followers to send virtual gifts to creators, which can be later converted into actual currency. For many content creators, this has become a significant source of income, but Nyako believes that it comes with serious ethical risks. “You do not question where this money comes from. Did the person work for it? How did they get it? Are they in a cult?” she said, raising concerns about the potential risks involved with accepting money from unknown or questionable sources. She also highlighted that some people use these financial platforms to recruit others into harmful activities without their knowledge.
Her caution stems from her belief that the anonymity of the givers can lead to questionable financial practices, especially when the gifters’ identities remain hidden. TikTok users, who enjoy the anonymity of virtual gifting, may unknowingly be supporting a cycle of dependency or, worse, unknowingly contributing to harmful causes.
Nyako didn’t stop at just the ethical concerns but also questioned the sustainability of TikTok as a source of wealth. “With TikTok, you cannot become a millionaire. The money will never be enough,” she remarked, suggesting that the platform creates a dependency that limits creators’ potential for financial independence. While TikTok can bring in money, it may never be enough to create long-term wealth, which is why Nyako is now contemplating moving away from TikTok and pursuing a more traditional work path.
She emphasized the value of earning money through hard work, contrasting it with the ease of accepting virtual gifts. Nyako stressed that while hard-earned money may seem small, it is often more valuable than untraceable virtual currency. “The money you work hard for is better than millions from unknown sources,” she stated, underscoring the importance of ethical earning practices.
Her remarks have resonated with many, especially those who share her concerns about the increasing dependency on social media platforms for income. The growing trend of creators receiving virtual gifts has ignited conversations about the ethical implications of monetizing content in such a way. Nyako’s shift away from TikTok and her desire for traditional work speaks to a broader issue: the need to prioritize transparency, personal accountability, and ethical income over the allure of easy money in the digital age.
As Nyako’s story continues to make waves, it’s clear that the debate on the ethics of TikTok monetization will continue, with creators and users alike questioning the true value of virtual gifts in an increasingly digital world.
