Snapchat says: Your account has been locked
Your account has been locked
Snapchat shows messages like "Your account has been locked" when Snap has stopped you from logging in, either for security or because it says the account broke its rules. Some locks are temporary and can be lifted by you, others are permanent. Remove any unofficial apps, follow the steps Snapchat shows, and use the appeal option in the app if the lock is permanent.
What this message means
Snapchat locks accounts in two broad situations. One is security: signs that someone else is getting in, or many failed logins. The other is rules: spam, harassment, or the use of unofficial apps and plugins that connect to Snapchat. The login screen alone does not always say which one applies, so look for an email from Snapchat or more detail in the app.
What it does not mean
- It does not always mean a permanent ban. Many locks are temporary.
- It does not mean your friends were told why.
- It does not mean your data is gone.
What to do now
- Screenshot the lock screen and note the date and username.
- Remove unofficial apps, plugins or modified versions of Snapchat from your phone. Use only the official app.
- Check your email for a message from Snapchat with the reason.
- Try to reopen the account if your lock is temporary: log in at accounts.snapchat.com and use the option there to lift it yourself. If it says you have to wait, wait before trying again.
- Appeal in the app if the lock is permanent: try to log in and tap "Appeal Decision" if the pop-up offers it. Snapchat says this is the only official way to appeal. Explain briefly why you think it is wrong.
- Secure your email account, because whoever controls it can reset your Snapchat.
- Do not create a new account to get around the lock.
If Snapchat says the lock is permanent, read Snapchat permanently banned.
The EU route
If you live in the EU and Snapchat locked your account because of alleged rule breaks, the Digital Services Act (DSA) applies:
- Snap must give a clear statement of reasons: the facts, the rule, whether automated tools were used, and how to challenge it.
- You get a free internal complaint for at least six months, not decided by automated means alone.
- You can go to a certified dispute body: User Rights and Platform Control list Snapchat. You do not need the internal complaint first. Decision within 90 days of receiving your complaint.
- Under the GDPR you can ask for a free copy of your data, including memories, within one month.
- Court stays open.
Outside the EU, Snapchat's own support is your main route. More on the Snapchat page.
Watch out for scams
Sellers of "Snapchat account repair" on social media ask for your login details or money. Snapchat never asks you to pay to lift a lock. Never share your password or codes with anyone.
Questions people ask
Why is my Snapchat account locked?
Snapchat locks accounts for security reasons, such as signs that someone else has access, and for activity it says breaks its Community Guidelines or Terms. Third-party apps and plugins are a common cause.
Is a Snapchat lock temporary or permanent?
Snapchat's support pages describe both. Some locks can be removed by the owner after a while, others are permanent decisions. For third-party app locks, the message or email says when the lock ends. For other temporary locks, Snapchat says to wait 48 hours and try again.
Will I lose my Snapchat memories?
Not straight away. If you live in the EU, you can ask Snap for a free copy of your personal data under the GDPR, answered within one month.
Is there a dispute body for Snapchat in the EU?
Yes. User Rights and Platform Control are certified dispute settlement bodies that list Snapchat. It is free or a nominal fee for you.
Checked against: help.snapchat.com