While Snapchat might accept an appeal, most bans are final. However, you can try each of the methods we’ve outlined below to either get your account back or create a new one.
We tested all these options ourselves:
- Wait for your ban to expire if it was temporary.
- Try submitting an appeal as it’s the only way to recover a permanently banned account.
- Use a VPN, a dynamic IP address, your phone’s hotspot, or another internet network to bypass IP address blocks.
- Reset your device ID to get around a device ban.
You might have to try more than one method, as Snapchat uses different types of bans to block accounts — or even whole households!
Most people get unbanned from Snapchat by using a VPN to change their IP address. For this, we recommend NordVPN, which boasts more than 5,500 VPN servers around the world.
Read the full step-by-step guide to getting unbanned from Snapchat below.
Snapchat moderates its app using its terms of service and community guidelines, and violating the Snapchat terms of service or guidelines can get your Snapchat account banned.
The good news? A Snapchat ban isn’t always permanent. Even if Snapchat bans your IP address, there’s a solution. Let’s dive into details — we’ve tested all your options for getting unbanned from Snapchat.
Can You Get Unbanned From Snapchat?
Yes, you can get unbanned from Snapchat under certain circumstances. At present, appealing a Snapchat ban is the only way to recover an old account that was banned.
Even if you can’t recover your account, you could create a new one. However, there are certain pitfalls to this, and not understanding the process could lead to subsequent accounts being banned.
In some cases, Snapchat bans your IP address. You can bypass an IP ban from Snapchat by using a virtual private network (VPN). This won’t unlock a permanently locked Snapchat account, but it will help you create a new account if Snapchat has banned your network.
Essentially, the type of ban that’s applied to your account generally determines how soon you can get back in, as well as your chances of being unbanned from Snapchat as a whole.
Types of Snapchat bans
Snapchat’s punishment of suspected offenders varies. Your ban could be short-lived, or it could be permanent:
- Temporary bans block you from the platform for a short period of time.
- Permanent bans stop you from accessing that account unless you succeed with an appeal.
- IP address bans are bans against your internet network, but they can be bypassed with a VPN, letting you create another account.
- Device (IMEI) bans are the worst kind, stopping you from using Snapchat on your device altogether.
For temporary or permanent bans, you can get your account back if you’re successful with an appeal. This is the preferred route, as it’s essentially a “second chance.”
Seven Ways to Get Unbanned From Snapchat
There are several ways to unlock Snapchat for your account. Users have reported success across the internet in trying one or more of these techniques.
1. Wait for a temporary ban to expire
This step is more designed for people who have suffered the ultimate punishment — the device ban. Snapchat fingerprints your device’s unique IMEI number, meaning any new accounts created on that device can be banned, too.
We’ve seen multiple reports on Reddit of users having new accounts banned. However, the same community claims that after six months, they could use that device to create a new account without having it banned.
So, one option is to simply wait. If your ban’s temporary, you can wait it out. If it’s not temporary, but you don’t want to try the above steps, you could avoid Snapchat until the ban is a distant memory and start anew.
2. Appeal your ban
If your ban isn’t temporary — or even if it is — an appeal could be your best bet to have Snapchat unblocked. It’s also the only way of recovering a permanently banned Snapchat account.
Just follow the steps below. While there’s no guarantee of success, you aren’t risking anything by submitting an appeal.
How to appeal a Snapchat ban
Unless you’re logged into Snapchat, you won’t see an option to access the help section. Instead, you’ll have to use a desktop computer or mobile browser.
- Go to the Snapchat Support page and click on “Contact Us” to contact Snapchat support.
- Click on the option “I can’t access my account.”
- Choose the option “I see an error message when I log in.”
- Click “Yes” when asked if you need further help.
- Fill in the form with your username and other details. Include an explanation for what happened.
- Submit your request, and cross your fingers.
While there’s an option to select “My account has been locked,” you won’t be given the option to contact support if you choose this box. Still, if you don’t ask, you don’t get — we think it’s worth contesting your ban as a first port of call.
Note:
When Snapchat bans your account, this is generally due to the fact that you violated its terms. While the below methods could help you to access Snapchat again, we don’t recommend actively using them when you have indeed violated the terms, as this is against the app’s terms of service. Bear in mind that Snapchat could delete any new accounts that you create.
3. Use a VPN (Virtual private network)
The simplest way to get unbanned from Snapchat in the face of an IP address ban is by using a VPN.
When you connect to the internet with a VPN, your IP address changes. Instead of your usual IP address, websites, and apps will see the VPN server’s IP address. Any bans against your IP address will become ineffective — in other words, you’ll be able to access Snapchat.
It’s important to choose the right VPN service. A handful of countries ban Snapchat by default, and free VPNs, for example, might not have servers that support the app. We recommend getting unbanned from Snapchat by using NordVPN’s powerful but affordable service.
Here’s a quick guide to getting unbanned from Snapchat with NordVPN:
- Delete Snapchat from your smartphone or tablet.
- Visit NordVPN, then create an account.
- Install NordVPN onto your device.
- Connect to a VPN server. We recommend using a U.S. or European VPN server.
- Install Snapchat again, but don’t log in with your old account!
- Now, you should be able to access Snapchat and create a new account.
- Fast and large worldwide network of VPN servers
- Perfect for privacy and streaming
- Trusted by many, with over 14 million users
Note:
A VPN cannot unlock a permanently locked Snapchat account, but it can prevent your future accounts from being banned. If you ever log into Snapchat with a new account using the network IP that was banned, your new accounts could be at risk, too. So, be sure to use your VPN subscription every time you use Snapchat.
4. Use a dynamic IP address
A dynamic IP address can achieve the same result as a VPN. In this context, dynamic means “changing” — a dynamic IP address changes from time to time. Usually, this is when you restart your router or reset it to factory default.
Your internet service provider might already use dynamic IP addresses by default. If in doubt, get in touch with them to check whether yours is dynamic or static (a.k.a. fixed).
If you have a dynamic IP address, unbanning Snapchat could be as simple as rebooting your router. With most ISPs, this can be achieved by inputting 192.168.1.1 into your browser’s address bar and logging into the router.
5. Connect to your phone’s Wi-Fi hotspot
If you usually connect to Snapchat from a desktop device, you could be in luck. By using the Wi-Fi hotspot option on your phone, you can bypass an IP address ban. Your phone’s hotspot will have a different IP address than your home Wi-Fi network.
Unban Snapchat with your Android hotspot
Here’s the same process for setting up a hotspot, but for Android:
- Open the “Settings” app and select “Mobile Hotspot & Tethering.”
- Tap on “Mobile Hotspot.”
- Set up a network, then give it a name and password for security.
- Connect to the hotspot from the device you usually use for Snapchat.
- You should now have access to Snapchat to create a new account.
Unban Snapchat with your iPhone hotspot
Here’s how to switch from your home Wi-Fi to an iPhone hotspot:
- Open your “Utilities” menu by dragging down from the top-right corner on an iPhone.
- Long-press the menu that holds Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Airplane Mode, and so on.
- When the menu expands, tap on the “Personal Hotspot” button.
- From your desktop device, connect to the hotspot network.
- Now, you should be able to access Snapchat and create a new account without being banned.
6. Connect to another internet network
Along the same lines as the above tip, you can simply use a different Wi-Fi network to get around your IP address ban.
We didn’t list this step higher for two reasons. First, it’s just inconvenient — we want to use our favorite apps from the comfort of our own homes, not a coffee shop. Secondly, there are risks associated with public Wi-Fi that make them less safe than being at home on a network you control.
7. Reset your device ID to unban Snapchat
If nothing’s worked so far, we suspect your device ID has been blacklisted. You won’t be able to create any new accounts until you reset it. Check out our guides for Android and iOS below.
Reset device ID on Android
Resetting your Android phone’s device ID is simple. You just need to revert your phone back to factory settings. Here’s a quick step-by-step guide:
- Open “Settings,” then tap on “General Management.”
- Tap on “Reset” and choose “Factory Data Reset.”
- Select “Erase All Data.”
Bear in mind that you’ll have to go through setup for your device again. But at least you’ll be able to create a new account with Snapchat.
Reset device ID on iOS
Like Android, iOS device bans require you to revert to factory defaults. There’s also an additional step to go through on an iPhone or iPad – we’ve outlined the steps below:
- Go to your “Settings” app.
- Tap on the “General” section.
- Scroll down until you see “Reset,” and tap on it.
- Tap on “Reset All Contents and Settings.”
If you’re still having no joy creating a new Snapchat account, you might have to purge your iCloud app settings. If so, go to “Settings” > “Apple ID” > “iCloud” > “Manage Storage.” Look for Snapchat, then erase all data.
Best VPN for Snapchat: NordVPN
When it comes to evading an IP address ban, NordVPN is the top choice. This isn’t just true for Snapchat, either. In addition to unbanning Snapchat, NordVPN will help you bypass any IP ban placed on your network. This means accessing a plethora of international, geo-blocked websites.
You can also use NordVPN to unblock Netflix’s international libraries. Say you’re from the U.S., but you’re visiting family in Canada. You can use NordVPN to connect to a U.S. server and see your usual Netflix U.S. catalog instead of the catalog available in Canada. This lets you watch movies and shows that are exclusive to certain locations.
NordVPN subscribers get 30 days of use for free, with an ironclad money-back guarantee that we’ve used personally in the past. This is more than enough time to see whether NordVPN can get you unbanned from Snapchat. (Spoiler: It can.)
What is Snapchat?
Snapchat’s evolved a lot over the years. At its core, it’s a limited-time media-sharing application. Pictures and videos shared with other users self-destruct after a short time.
The app started out as a one-on-one messaging platform. Today, however, you can send videos, host live chats, see friends on a Snap Map, and more.
Why does Snapchat ban users?
Sometimes, companies get things wrong, and you could get wrongly banned. But while some bans can be mistakes resulting from an algorithm or hacked account, most bans are due to legitimate user error.
Let’s take a look at what actions could lead to a banned account.
1. Sharing banned or illegal content
Snapchat self-destructs content quickly in many cases, but that doesn’t mean it goes unnoticed. Sharing the wrong kind of context can quickly lead to being locked out of your account. This includes:
- Media containing sexually explicit content, particularly when people featured are minors
- Posts depicting illegal activities, including drugs or weapons
- Terrorism or hate speech that discriminates against others
- Promoting violence against others
This kind of content is one of the fastest ways to get your Snapchat account banned. Other users will likely report you and get your account investigated quickly. Moreover, it’s some of the most likely to lead to a permanent ban or see your device banned.
2. Bullying other users
Snapchat takes bullying seriously — so seriously, that you’ll catch a ban if you create a new account to contact Snapchat users who’ve blocked you.
Other actions that fall under this community guideline include sending pictures or videos of another person in a private space.
To avoid being banned from Snapchat, don’t share other peoples’ — or your own — private information on social media! Additionally, avoid Snapping in medical facilities, locker rooms, and other personal places.
3. Creating a fake account or fake information
Snapchat bans fake accounts that try to impersonate other people. While creating a tribute page for a celebrity might seem like a good idea, it could also land you with a ban.
Under the same rule, you should also avoid creating or spreading fake information. For example, making fake medical claims, inventing laws that don’t exist, or denying real-world events that happened could all get you banned.
4. Snapchat suspects you’ve been hacked
Snapchat might ban your account if they think that it has been compromised. While this can and does happen, there are certain other actions that might trigger this outcome, including:
- Posting spam (or a high volume of low-quality content) from your own account
- Logging into your account from unusual locations, such as abroad
- Repeatedly logging in and out of the app
- Adding a large number of new contacts in a short period
If you’ve genuinely been hacked, changing your password to a secure password and visiting the Snapchat support page should let you unlock it quickly.
Traveling abroad? You can avoid getting flagged for being in an unusual location by using a VPN to connect to a server from your home country. NordVPN has servers in over 60 countries, so you’re sure to find a server in your country.
5. Installing third-party Snap apps
Snapchat doesn’t support third-party apps that claim to enhance the platform, period. Downloading such an application can swiftly get you banned. Worse, if you download the wrong app, you could be putting yourself at risk of spyware and other harmful malware.
This app, developed by Snap Inc, is the only official and accepted application. If you’re an iPhone user, you’re in safe hands — you’ll note the App Store lacks any unofficial, third-party apps. If you’re on Android, you may have to be a little more careful.
6. Snapchat thinks you’re a robot
Snapchat could ban your account if they suspect that it belongs to somebody who’s using automation to market a product or push some other kind of message.
In other words, Snapchat might drop the ban hammer if your account looks like a bot. If you’ve sent a bunch of friend requests in short succession, for example, you could trigger the algorithm’s judgment.
How to Avoid Getting Banned on Snapchat
If you want to avoid getting banned on Snapchat, it’s as simple as following the community guidelines and keeping your account clean. Make sure you create your account with a genuine email or phone number and verify your details.
From here, there are a few simple rules that should keep you from being banned from Snapchat:
- Don’t install third-party Snapchat apps. Snapchat itself is the only acceptable app.
- Don’t share your account with anyone. Keep your password private and secure, preferably with a password manager.
- Don’t post content that goes against community guidelines.
- Don’t spam, harass, or bully other users.
If you stay in Snapchat’s good graces, there’ll be no reason to ban you.
Conclusion: VPNs Unblock Snapchat and Protect You
If you’ve received a temporary Snapchat ban, it shouldn’t take long to expire. But if you’ve been permanently banned, we recommend appealing it to the Snapchat support team first.
Failing that, your best option is to use a VPN and create a new account. This’ll prevent further bans in the likelihood your IP address has been banned alongside your account.
NordVPN is your best bet for getting around an IP address ban. Choose a U.S. or European VPN server, and you should be able to create a new account using the VPN without being banned. There are no data limits, meaning you can continue using Snapchat in exactly the same way you were before.
It’s worth reading up on Snapchat’s terms of service and community guidelines to ensure that you don’t risk another ban in the future. And remember, if you do choose to create a new account, avoid logging in from a device or network that’s been banned!
Check out our other guides about Snapchat:
- What Does Snapchat Know About Me?
- How to Optimize Your Snapchat Privacy Settings
- Is Snapchat Safe For Kids?
- How to Delete Snapchat
We get a lot of questions about getting unbanned from Snapchat. Check out our FAQ below for answers to our most common questions!
Snapchat’s bans aren’t always permanent. In some cases, you might only receive a temporary ban lasting as little as 24 hours. In other cases, you could be permanently banned for breaking the Terms of Service or Community Guidelines. Snapchat can even ban your IP address, meaning the only way you can access the app is with a service like NordVPN. Once a temporary ban is lifted, you can usually unlock it again by going to Snapchat’s support website.
Unfortunately, device bans are tied to your device’s unique IMEI number on Snapchat. The good news is that we’ve seen reports of users being able to use the same device again after waiting for around six months.
If your device ID has been banned, check out our full guide to getting unbanned from Snapchat for instructions on resetting your phone’s ID. You won’t get your old account back, but you should be able to create a new one.
Snapchat may lift a ban after you submit an appeal. There’s no guarantee, but we’ve seen users report success. Similarly, we found users on Reddit who received device bans but could use the same device to create a new account after waiting for six months. If you don’t want to wait, some recommend using a VPN to change your IP address and change your device ID.
