Xiaohongshu (RedNote) is a popular platform, but users may sometimes experience account freezes or bans. This guide consolidates common issues, possible causes, and recovery steps to help you resolve such problems.
Common Causes for Account Freezes or Bans
1. Missing Real-Name Authentication
Xiaohongshu requires real-name verification for full functionality. Accounts without this verification are at higher risk of being frozen or banned.
Solution: Complete real-name verification by going to Settings > Account and Security > Real Name Verification. International users need to provide a passport, and the process may take a few days.
2. Profile Picture or Banner Issues
Using politically sensitive images or symbols, even unintentionally, can lead to account flags.
Solution: Choose neutral, non-political images for your profile and banner to avoid moderation issues.
3. Inappropriate Comments or Offensive Language
Comments containing offensive language or insults, even if not meant seriously, may trigger flags.
Solution: Avoid offensive comments and always use neutral, positive language.
4. Political or Sensitive Content
Content that is politically sensitive or controversial can be flagged, even if not explicitly violating guidelines.
Solution: Avoid content that may be perceived as politically charged or sensitive.
5. Suspicious Activity
Rapid liking, commenting, or following can be seen as bot-like behavior.
Solution: Pace your interactions to avoid being flagged for suspicious activity.
6. Mass Reporting
Multiple users reporting your account for spammy behavior may trigger a suspension.
Solution: Avoid excessive commenting, mass-following, or unsolicited interactions.
7. VPN Usage
Using a VPN can mask your location, which might cause your account to be flagged for suspicious activity.
Solution: Avoid using a VPN when accessing Xiaohongshu to prevent location-based issues.
Steps to Recover a Frozen or Banned Xiaohongshu Account
1. Complete Real-Name Verification
If your account is frozen due to missing verification, completing the real-name verification is the first step.
Action: Go to Settings > Account and Security > Real Name Verification and follow the steps to verify your identity.
2. Use Alternative Registration Methods
If your phone number is banned, try registering with a burner number or WeChat.
Action: Register with a different phone number or use WeChat for registration.
3. Appeal the Ban
If your account has been banned, contact Xiaohongshu customer support to inquire about the reason or appeal the decision.
Action: Reach out to customer support to start an appeal.
4. Disable VPN
If you were using a VPN, it could have triggered a flag for suspicious behavior.
Action: Turn off your VPN when using Xiaohongshu.
5. Review Content for Violations
Check your posts for content that could have violated platform guidelines, such as offensive or politically sensitive material.
Action: Remove problematic content and replace it with neutral posts.
6. Retrieve Account ID
If you can’t access your account, retrieve your account ID to understand the ban’s cause.
Action: Contact customer service to retrieve your account ID and verify the reason for the ban.
Xiaohongshu Ban Recovery Process (Chinese Instructions)
- Login to Xiaohongshu, then go to Me.
- Tap the three horizontal lines in the upper left corner to open the menu.
- Click on Settings.
- In the Settings menu, select Help & Customer Service.
- In the self-service section, find Appeal for Notes or Account Appeal.
- Submit your appeal with relevant screenshots, then click Submit.
- Wait for a response within 48 hours.
If the issue isn’t resolved, contact customer support for further assistance.
Conclusion
To recover a frozen or banned account, complete real-name verification, review your content for violations, and contact customer support if needed. If the standard recovery methods fail, consider alternative registration or appealing the ban. Be patient, as the process can take several days.
Final Tips for Maintaining a Safe Account
- Complete real-name verification to avoid future freezes.
- Use neutral profile pictures and avoid political symbols.
- Avoid offensive language or controversial comments.
- Disable VPNs to prevent location-based issues.
- Contact customer support if issues persist.
By following these steps, you can minimize the risk of future account freezes or bans on Xiaohongshu.
