While it’s not against the terms of service, you can get banned on Twitter/X for using a VPN. Usually, a VPN allows you to browse the web privately and securely, bypass internet restrictions, and unblock Twitter in countries like China, Russia, etc.
However, some actions, like frequently changing servers or using a free VPN with limited server options, can trigger security checks on X. Basically, connecting to the platform through a server that’s been flagged for abusive behavior or spam can get your account limited or suspended.
In this guide, we’ll explore behaviors that can put your profile at risk and offer tips on avoiding VPN-related bans on Twitter/X. We’ll also explain how to recover your account, including a method beyond the standard appeal process.
Finally, we’ll offer tips on creating a new account without getting banned in the first five minutes before moving on to some FAQs.
Why you need a VPN for Twitter/X
Getting a reliable Twitter VPN is essential for the following reasons:
- Hiding your IP address will keep your online location private. Of course, switching IPs too quickly may result in a short Twitter suspension. Ideally, connecting to a server near your location would be best to prevent any issues.
- Securing your data on public wi-fi. VPNs use encryption to make your traffic unreadable to cyber attackers, nosy network admins, and other snoopers.
- Unblocking Twitter/X in Russia, China, and other restrictive regions. Maybe Brazil if the Supreme Court decides to block the service again soon.
Naturally, not all VPN users have the best intentions so server IPs may get flagged as a source of spam and other irregular activity. Now and then, this will lead to an unfair ban on Twitter/X.
What could get you banned from Twitter/X?
The Twitter/X rules for banning users are your standard fare for social media. Here’s a quick breakdown of behaviors that could get you banned:
- Violent, hateful, or abusive behavior: Posting threats, hate speech, harassment, or glorifying explicit violence.
- Child and personal privacy violations: Sharing abusive or private content without consent.
- Promotion of harmful actions: Encouraging self-harm or affiliating with violent individuals (e.g., terrorists).
- Illegal activities: Attempting to buy, sell, or promote banned items or sharing adult content without proper labeling.
- Deceptive actions: Impersonating, spreading misinformation, or manipulating trends.
- Spam and copyright violations: Engaging in spam, platform manipulation, or posting copyrighted media and videos with third-party ads.
As expected, VPN usage isn’t a bannable offense, according to The X Rules. That said, infringing accounts may use the same VPN server as you, which could sometimes result in a wrongful ban. Moreover, frequent IP changes or mass liking/following on a new profile could trigger security flags and lead to a temporary suspension.
Can I get banned for using a free VPN for Twitter/X?
Using a free VPN on Twitter/X comes with a few key risks. For one, free VPNs tend to have limited servers and IPs. This makes it easier for the platform to detect and block them if they see any unusual traffic from a single IP. Furthermore, these VPNs are frequently used by spammers and bots, causing X to flag their IPs more often.
Additionally, many free VPNs compromise user privacy by logging or selling browsing data to ad companies and other shady organizations. Some free providers have even leaked sensitive user data on the internet despite having a no-logs policy.
A paid VPN provider with a trial period is a safer alternative for Twitter/X. Thanks to their extensive network, you can minimize the chances of a ban, bypass internet censorship, and maintain secure access from anywhere.
Banned on Twitter/X for using a VPN? Here’s what to do
If you’ve been banned by mistake, you have a couple of options to try out:
- Log into your X account and provide your phone number or confirm your email, then continue as directed to unsuspend your profile.
- If the above does not work, log into your suspended account and access this link to file an appeal.
- Explain your situation. If you have no other rule violations on file, your X account should be unbanned after a while.
- Like Facebook and other major companies, X’s support teams aren’t breaking any speed records. If your ticket has been open for 10+ days, be persistent and try replying to the same email every day to grab their attention.
- You can file a complaint against X Corp through the Better Business Bureau (BBB) using this link if all else fails. Once again, explain your situation in detail and mention that Twitter/X hasn’t been responding to your requests to get unbanned. Note that the BBB method is not guaranteed to succeed, either.
That didn’t work—what now?
If nothing else works, your best bet is to create a new X account. Be advised that attempting to bypass a Twitter/X ban this way could result in yet another suspension. Here are some precautions before you proceed:
- Log out of any suspended accounts.
- Clear your browser cookies and your cache. Alternatively, use a different, freshly installed browser.
- You might also want to switch to a different connection (e.g., mobile data instead of your usual wi-fi network).
- Connect to a VPN server that is different from the one you’ve been using when it was banned on X.
- Create your new Twitter/X account.
- Don’t immediately start posting, liking, or following accounts. The platform might mistakenly flag this as bot behavior and suspend you again.
- Wait a few hours and start re-adding your followers in increments. To avoid arousing suspicion, always connect to the same VPN location when using the website.
- Don’t post any promotional content, at least not until you’ve been in the clear for more than a week.
If it seems tedious, that’s because it is. However, it’s the best way to avoid getting banned on Twitter/X while using a VPN with a new profile.
Can I get banned on Twitter/X for using a VPN FAQs
Is it safe to use Twitter with a VPN?
Yes, using a VPN with Twitter is generally safe, as it helps protect your privacy and security by masking your IP address. However, frequent IP changes may trigger security measures that could lead to temporary bans.
Why does my X account keep getting suspended?
Your X account might be suspended due to violations of platform rules, such as abusive behavior or spreading misinformation. Frequently changing your IP with a VPN, or rapidly liking and following a lot of accounts on a new profile can look like bot behavior and also get you banned. Review the X guidelines and avoid suspicious activity to prevent further suspensions.
Why is Twitter not working with a VPN?
Twitter may not work properly with a VPN due to IP-related security measures or server restrictions. In some cases, it’s simply a matter of a software-related issue preventing you from going on Twitter.
Try updating the VPN, turning off the VPN’s ad-blocker, switching servers/providers, or disconnecting from the app entirely if you’re having trouble accessing Twitter.
Can Twitter detect VPNs?
Twitter can detect if you’re using a VPN if the server’s IP address has been flagged, or if your VPN happens to be leaking your IP info. We recommend using a tool like Browserleaks to check for VPN leaks if you’re experiencing issues connecting to the platform.
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