Short answer
A temporarily locked Snapchat account can usually be unlocked by you: wait, then log in in the app or at accounts.snapchat.com and select Unlock. A permanently locked account means Snapchat found a breach of its rules; in eligible cases you can submit an appeal in the app. If someone else got in, change your password with a reset link by SMS or email, check the email and phone on the account, remove unknown devices and contact Snapchat Support if you can’t get back in.
Temporary or permanent lock?
- Temporarily locked: for example after unofficial apps or plugins were used, or after activity that looked suspicious. You can usually unlock it yourself after a wait.
- Permanently locked: Snapchat detected activity that violates its Community Guidelines or Terms of Service.
How to unlock a temporary lock
- Remove any unofficial apps, plugins or modified versions of Snapchat.
- Wait — trying again and again can extend the lock.
- Log in in the app, or go to accounts.snapchat.com and choose Unlock.
Appealing a permanent lock
In eligible cases Snapchat lets you submit an appeal in the app. Explain briefly why the decision is wrong, and if the account was hacked, say when and what you have done since. Snapchat warns that the only legitimate ways to unlock are doing it yourself or appealing in the app — ignore anyone who claims they can unlock it for money.
If your account was hacked
- Change your password using a reset link sent by SMS or email.
- Check that the email and mobile number in Settings are yours.
- Review devices signed in to your account and remove any you don’t recognise.
- If you can’t get in, use Snapchat Support’s help and include an email address you can access; expect questions about your username and when you lost access.
- Never share your password or My Eyes Only passcode — not even with Snapchat support.
Where we help
On Snapchat, the unlock and the appeal are steps you take yourself. We can review your situation, help you prepare the appeal and secure the rest of your accounts — part of our hacked account recovery work. We never ask for your password.
Frequently asked questions
How long is a temporary Snapchat lock?
Snapchat doesn’t give a fixed time. Waiting before you try again, and removing unofficial apps, gives the best chance.
Can I unlock a permanently locked Snapchat?
Only through an appeal in the app where it is offered. If it is rejected, the decision usually stands.
Someone offers to unlock my Snapchat for a fee. Is it real?
No. Snapchat says the only legitimate routes are unlocking it yourself or appealing in the app.
Can Snapchat Support unlock my account?
Support can help with a hacked account when you include an email you can access. For a permanent lock, the appeal in the app is the route Snapchat offers.
Sources: Snapchat Support — my account is locked, Snapchat Support — how to submit an appeal, Snapchat Support — my account is compromised