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Can You Get Perm Banned in Pokémon GO? The Definitive Guide

Yes, absolutely. You can get permanently banned in Pokémon GO. Niantic, the game’s developer, takes violations of their Terms of Service (TOS), Player Guidelines, and Live Event Code of Conduct very seriously. A permanent ban, often referred to as a “permaban,” is the most severe penalty they can impose, effectively ending your Pokémon GO journey on that account. Think of it as a one-way ticket to Pallet Town… with no return flight. Let’s delve into the specifics of what can lead to this digital disaster and how to avoid it.

Understanding Niantic’s Stance on Fair Play

Niantic’s primary goal is to foster a fair and enjoyable experience for all players. This means ensuring that everyone adheres to the rules and plays the game as intended. They actively monitor the game for behavior that violates their guidelines and takes action against accounts found to be in breach. Their stance is clear: cheating and unfair advantages will not be tolerated. This commitment to fair play explains the existence and enforcement of permanent bans.

What Activities Can Result in a Permaban?

Several activities can trigger a permanent ban in Pokémon GO. These fall under the broad categories of cheating and violating Niantic’s guidelines. Here’s a breakdown:

Spoofing: This is perhaps the most common reason for permanent bans. Spoofing involves using third-party apps or software to alter your device’s GPS location, allowing you to virtually travel to different locations without physically being there. This is a serious violation, as it grants an unfair advantage by allowing you to access Pokémon, PokéStops, and Gyms that would otherwise be inaccessible. Niantic has invested significantly in detecting and combating spoofing.
Using Bots or Automated Tools: Employing bots or other automated tools to play the game on your behalf is strictly prohibited. This includes using software that automatically catches Pokémon, spins PokéStops, or battles in Gyms. These tools provide an unfair advantage and disrupt the game’s ecosystem.
Using Modified or Unofficial Apps: Downloading and using modified or unofficial versions of the Pokémon GO app is a major violation. These apps often contain features that provide unfair advantages or bypass the game’s security measures. Niantic actively scans for these apps and bans accounts that use them.
Selling or Trading Accounts: Selling or trading Pokémon GO accounts is against the TOS. Your account is intended for your personal use only, and transferring it to another player is prohibited.
Harassment or Abusive Behavior: Engaging in harassment, bullying, or other forms of abusive behavior towards other players can also result in a permanent ban. Niantic is committed to creating a safe and inclusive community, and they will not tolerate any behavior that disrupts that environment.
Exploiting Game Glitches or Bugs: Intentionally exploiting game glitches or bugs to gain an unfair advantage is a violation of the TOS. If you discover a bug, you should report it to Niantic rather than exploiting it for personal gain.

The Strike System: A Warning Before the End

Niantic typically employs a “three-strike” system before issuing a permanent ban. This gives players an opportunity to correct their behavior after receiving warnings.

First Strike (Warning): A warning message is sent to the player, indicating that they have violated the TOS. This strike usually lasts for seven days, during which certain in-game features may be limited.
Second Strike (Suspension): If the player continues to violate the TOS after receiving the first strike, their account will be suspended for approximately 30 days.
Third Strike (Permanent Ban): If the player continues to violate the TOS after the suspension period, their account will be permanently banned.

While this system is generally followed, Niantic reserves the right to issue a permanent ban immediately in cases of severe violations.

How to Know If You’ve Been Permabanned

The signs of a permanent ban are fairly clear. Here’s what you’ll likely experience:

Login Issues: You will be unable to log into your Pokémon GO account. You’ll receive a message indicating that your account has been suspended or terminated.
Empty Game World: Even if you manage to log in, you won’t see any Pokémon, PokéStops, or Gyms on the map. The game world will appear empty.
Email Notification: Niantic will typically send an email to the address associated with your account, informing you of the permanent ban and the reason for it.

Can You Appeal a Permaban?

Yes, you can appeal a permanent ban if you believe it was issued in error. To do so, you’ll need to contact Niantic’s support team through their website or in-app support. Provide as much information as possible to support your appeal, including any evidence that demonstrates you did not violate the TOS.

However, keep in mind that Niantic’s decision is final in most cases. Appeals are typically only successful if there was a clear error in the ban process or if you can provide compelling evidence that you were wrongly accused.

FAQs About Permanent Bans in Pokémon GO

Here are some frequently asked questions about permanent bans in Pokémon GO:

Can I get banned for using a VPN? Using a VPN to protect your privacy is generally acceptable, but using it to mask your location for spoofing purposes can lead to a ban. The intention behind using the VPN is crucial.
Is it possible to get unbanned if I promise not to cheat again? While you can appeal, a promise not to cheat is usually not enough to overturn a permanent ban. You need to provide compelling evidence that you did not violate the TOS.
If I share my account with a friend and they cheat, will I get banned? Yes, you are responsible for all activity on your account, even if it was someone else who violated the TOS. Avoid sharing your account with anyone.
Does Niantic ban based on IP address? Niantic primarily bans accounts, not IP addresses. However, they may use IP addresses to identify and investigate potential spoofing activity.
Can I create a new account after being permabanned? Yes, you can create a new account, but it must comply with the TOS. Avoid repeating the behavior that led to your previous ban.
How often does Niantic issue permanent bans? Niantic regularly issues permanent bans to accounts that violate their TOS. The frequency varies depending on the prevalence of cheating and spoofing.
If I live in a rural area with no PokéStops, is it okay to spoof? No. While it may be frustrating to live in a rural area, spoofing is still a violation of the TOS and can lead to a permanent ban.
Can I get banned for using IV checkers? Some IV checkers are safe to use, while others can violate the TOS. Avoid using apps that require you to log in with your Pokémon GO account, as these can compromise your account security.
What happens to my Pokémon if I get permabanned? You lose access to all your Pokémon, items, and progress if your account is permanently banned.
Is it possible to buy an unbanned account? Buying accounts is against the TOS, regardless of whether they are banned or not. Avoid purchasing Pokémon GO accounts.
How accurate is Niantic’s ban detection system? While not perfect, Niantic’s ban detection system is generally accurate. False positives are rare, but they can occur.
Can I get banned for using multiple devices? Using multiple devices to play Pokémon GO is generally allowed, as long as you are only using one account and not engaging in any cheating activities.
What is the shadowban in Pokémon GO? A shadowban is a temporary restriction on your account that limits your ability to see rare Pokémon. It is often a warning sign that Niantic suspects you of cheating.
How long does a shadowban last? Shadowbans typically last for a few days to two weeks.
Does Niantic ever offer amnesty for permabanned accounts? Niantic has occasionally offered amnesty for accounts that were banned due to technical errors or misunderstandings. However, this is rare.

Staying Safe and Playing Fair

The best way to avoid a permanent ban is to play Pokémon GO fairly and ethically. Stick to the official app, avoid using any third-party tools that provide an unfair advantage, and respect other players. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the game without risking your account. Learning more about ethical gameplay and the social dynamics of gaming communities can be greatly beneficial. Consider exploring resources offered by organizations like the Games Learning Society to further understand the principles of good gaming conduct. You can find more information on ethical gameplay at GamesLearningSociety.org.

A Final Word

A permanent ban in Pokémon GO is a serious consequence of violating Niantic’s Terms of Service. Understanding the rules and playing fair is crucial for ensuring a long and enjoyable Pokémon GO experience. Remember, the thrill of catching ’em all is best when it’s earned through legitimate gameplay.

Can you get perm banned in Pokemon GO?