If you’ve ever tried to log in and seen the message “AWS says my account is blocked”, you’re not alone. Many users face this frustrating issue, especially when using AWS for the first time or after setting up Amazon SES or EC2. In this article, we’ll explore why AWS blocks accounts, how to get your account unblocked, and what you can do to prevent it in the future.
Why AWS Says My Account Is Blocked
There are several reasons why you might receive the “AWS says my account is blocked” message. Some common causes include:
- Failed identity verification during signup
- Suspicious or unauthorized activity detected
- Violation of AWS Terms of Service
- Unpaid invoices or billing issues
- Use of VPN or proxy during account creation
- Multiple accounts from the same IP or device
AWS has a very strict policy to protect its platform and customers, so even a small issue can trigger an automatic block.
What Happens When Your AWS Account Is Blocked?
Once AWS blocks your account, you may face the following issues:
- Inability to log in to the AWS Console
- Suspension of all services, including EC2, SES, and S3
- Pending emails or servers may be paused
- You cannot create new resources or access existing ones
- Billing may continue unless the account is fully terminated
How to Fix “AWS Says My Account Is Blocked”
Here are the steps you can take to fix this issue:
- Check Your Email: AWS usually sends a message explaining the reason for the block. Look for any instructions.
- Submit a Support Ticket: Go to the AWS Support Center and open a case under “Account and Billing Support.”
- Verify Your Identity: Be ready to provide government-issued ID, business documents, or a utility bill.
- Explain Your Use Case: Be honest and clear about how you plan to use the AWS services (e.g., SES for transactional emails).
- Resolve Any Billing Issues: If there are unpaid dues, settle them immediately.
- Wait for Review: It may take 24–72 hours or longer depending on the case.
Can You Recover a Blocked AWS Account?
Yes, in many cases, if the block was not due to serious violations like fraud or spam, AWS may unblock your account after proper verification. However, if the account was permanently closed for abuse, you may not be able to recover it.
Alternatives If Your AWS Account Remains Blocked
If you’ve tried everything and still get the “AWS says my account is blocked” message, here are a few options:
- Create a new account with a different email, IP address, and billing method
- Buy a verified AWS account from a trusted provider
- Use other cloud services like Google Cloud or Azure if you’re in a hurry
- Contact AWS via phone for urgent issues (Enterprise plan users)
Final Thoughts
Getting the message “AWS says my account is blocked” can be stressful, especially if you depend on AWS for business or email campaigns. But with the right steps, most accounts can be recovered. Always follow AWS guidelines, avoid using proxies during sign-up, and be honest about your use case. And if needed, verified AWS accounts are available to get you started quickly.