Can Google Block Your Gmail Account?

Gmail is free and most people have their Gmail linked to various online websites and apps. With so much dependence, it makes us wonder what will happen if Google blocks our Gmail account. But can Google really block anyone's Gmail account? In what circumstances can Google block your Gmail account? For better understanding, here's a look at some common reasons why your Gmail account could be disabled.

Account hacking - If you are using your Gmail for sending links that are used for account hacking or hijacking, Google can choose to block or disable your Gmail account.

Automatic calls or messaging - As per Google's terms and conditions, Gmail users cannot use their account to send automatic messages or make automatic phone calls using a computerized auto dialer. If you are engaging in such activities, your Gmail account could be disabled.

Child sexual abuse - Google has strict policies against child sexual abuse and exploitation. If your Gmail account is being used for activities like circulating child abuse materials, child grooming, sextortion, sexualization of a minor or trafficking of a child, your Gmail account can be blocked. In addition to blocking your account, Google can also report your activities to law enforcement agencies.

Creating false identity - If you are using your Gmail account to trick people, your account can be disabled. Scamster often use Gmail accounts to mimic legitimate email accounts of businesses and government organizations. This is done to cheat or deceive people.

Harass or threaten people - If you use your Gmail account to bully, harass or threaten people, your Gmail account can be blocked. Google can also report such matters to relevant authorities.

Malware, phishing, cyber-attacks - Your Gmail account can be blocked if it is being used for activities such as sending malware, phishing and conducting cyber-attacks.

Sexually explicit content - Gmail account is not meant to be used for distributing sexually explicit content such as nudity, graphic sex acts, pornographic content and driving traffic to commercial pornography sites. Such activities can lead to ban of the respective Gmail account.

Spamming - If Google notices that your Gmail account is being used to send spam emails and other spam content, your Gmail account can be blocked.

Terrorist activities - Gmail cannot be used for terror activities such as recruiting terrorists, inciting violence, glorifying terrorist attacks, promoting acts of terrorism, etc. Such activities can lead to suspension of a Gmail account.

Legal court order - Your Gmail account can be banned, if a court issues such an order. In such cases, only the court or higher court can provide you relief.

What to do if your Gmail is blocked or disabled?

If your Gmail is blocked, you will not be able to use the services. In some cases, you may receive a text message that your Google account has been blocked. If your Google account is blocked, you can sign in on a browser, preferably Chrome browser. You will not have access to your emails, but you can select the 'Start Appeal' button. After that, just follow the instructions on the screen.

Google will review your appeal and take a decision accordingly. If your appeal to restore your Google account is rejected, the account could be permanently disabled. It will be considered for deletion. However, you may still be able to download some of your data. In some cases like court order, account hijacking, child sexual abuse, terrorism, etc., none of the data will be available for download.