'Account Locked for Inactivity' Scam
A message warns your account will be locked or closed for inactivity unless you log in through a link to 'confirm' it — the link steals your credentials.
Think a message like this reached you? You can check it right now.
What this scam is
You receive a warning that your account has been locked or will be closed due to inactivity, and you must verify or 'reactivate' it through a link. The link leads to a fake login page that captures your username and password. The threat of losing access nudges you to log in quickly. Real providers let you sign in normally through their app or website.
What it usually looks like
- An 'account locked/will be closed' warning.
- A link to 'reactivate' or 'confirm' your account.
- A short deadline to avoid closure.
- A login page on a non-official address.
Common warning signs
- Threats of closure to force a quick login.
- The link is not the provider's real site.
- Generic greeting and odd wording.
- You can still log in normally through the real app.
Example wording scammers use
“Your account has been temporarily locked due to inactivity. Confirm your details within 24 hours to avoid permanent closure.”
“Reactivate your account now to prevent suspension: account-reactivate-secure.net”
These are illustrative examples written by ScamSplain, not real messages.
What the scammers want
- Your username and password.
- To reuse credentials on other sites.
- Access to your funds or data.
What to do
- Do not use the link; open the real app or type the address yourself.
- Change your password from inside the real account if worried.
- Enable two-factor authentication.
- Delete and report.
What to do if you already responded
- Change the password and revoke unknown sessions.
- Watch the account for unauthorized activity.
- Report at reportfraud.ftc.gov.