How Long is a Soft Ban in Pokémon GO?
As an avid Pokémon GO player, I’ve unfortunately experienced the dreaded soft ban firsthand. It’s a frustrating setback that can severely hinder your progress in the game. But how long does a soft ban in Pokémon GO actually last? Let’s delve into this topic and explore the ins and outs of this temporary restriction.
A soft ban in Pokémon GO is a temporary suspension that prevents players from interacting with certain aspects of the game. This includes catching Pokémon, spinning PokéStops, and battling in Gyms. Soft bans are typically issued when the game detects suspicious activity, such as using third-party apps or GPS spoofing.
Duration of a Soft Ban
The duration of a soft ban in Pokémon GO varies depending on the severity of the offense. Minor offenses, such as accidentally using an unauthorized app once, usually result in a short ban of around 15-30 minutes. More serious offenses, such as repeatedly using GPS spoofing, can lead to a ban of several hours or even days.
Symptoms of a Soft Ban
There are a few telltale signs that you’ve been soft-banned in Pokémon GO. These include:
- Inability to catch Pokémon: When you throw a Poké Ball at a Pokémon, it will immediately break out and flee, even with excellent throws.
- PokéStops not spinning: When you attempt to spin a PokéStop, it will spin for a few seconds before displaying an error message.
- Gyms not showing up: You won’t be able to see any Gyms on the map, and you won’t be able to battle or train in them.
How to Avoid a Soft Ban
The best way to avoid a soft ban in Pokémon GO is to play the game fairly. This means avoiding the use of unauthorized apps, GPS spoofing, and other cheating methods. It’s also important to be mindful of the game’s rules and guidelines.
Tips for Getting Out of a Soft Ban
If you find yourself soft-banned, there are a few things you can do to lift the restriction:
- Wait it out: The soft ban will eventually expire on its own. The duration of the ban depends on the severity of the offense.
- Restart the game: Sometimes, restarting the game can help clear the soft ban. Make sure to close all instances of the game and then relaunch it.
- Contact Niantic: If you believe you’ve been soft-banned in error, you can contact Niantic’s support team for assistance.
FAQs on Soft Bans in Pokémon GO
Q: What is the difference between a soft ban and a permanent ban?
A: A soft ban is a temporary suspension that restricts certain game activities. A permanent ban is a more severe punishment that prevents players from accessing the game altogether.
Q: Can I still log in to my account if I’m soft-banned?
A: Yes, you can still log in to your account, but you will not be able to interact with certain aspects of the game.
Q: How do I know if my soft ban has been lifted?
A: Once your soft ban has expired, you will be able to catch Pokémon, spin PokéStops, and battle in Gyms again.
Conclusion
Soft bans in Pokémon GO are a common occurrence, but they can be frustrating nonetheless. The duration of the ban depends on the severity of the offense, and there are a few things you can do to get out of it if you believe you’ve been banned in error.
By understanding the ins and outs of soft bans, you can avoid them in the future and ensure a smooth and enjoyable Pokémon GO experience.
Are you interested in learning more about soft bans or other aspects of Pokémon GO?
