[Solved] How to Avoid & Remove Pokémon Go Shadow Bans
Why am i shadow banned in Pokémon Go? You’re not alone. Recently, Niantic has stepped up its efforts to ban accounts using third-party tools to enhance the Pokémon Go experience. The shadow ban is one of the most common bans, affecting hundreds of players worldwide. If you’re one of them, don’t worry — this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Pokémon Go shadow bans and how you can avoid it.
Part 1. What Should You Know about Pokémon Go Shadow
➔ What is a Shadow Ban in Pokémon Go?
A shadow ban prevents players from seeing any rare Pokémon on the map, but allows them to catch common Pokémon, participate in raids, and hatch eggs. Shadow ban Pokemon Go comes with an explicit notice that is delivered to the player upon login and requires acknowledgement. The ban lasts 7 to 14 days, but repeated offenses may result in longer bans or even permanent suspension.
➔ Why do My Pokémon Go Accounts Get Shadow-banned?
Pokémon Go accounts are usually shadow-banned when players’ accounts break the game’s Terms of Service. However, there are several other factors that can also lead to a shadow ban. Below, we’ve listed some of the most common reasons:
- • One of the most common reasons behind the shadow ban is location spoofing. If you’re caught using third-party tools for location spoofing in Pokémon Go, Niantic may penalize your account with various bans, including a shadow ban.
- • Using bots in Pokémon Go is another common reason players receive a shadow ban. This violates Niantic’s rules, as it gives players an unfair advantage.
- • Installing modified or cracked versions of Pokémon Go also activates the shadow ban. These versions come with advanced features, which can be used for cheating, such as joystick control, auto-catch Pokémon, and more.
- • Logging in from multiple devices or switching location too quickly can raise red flags and increase your chances of getting shadow-banned in Pokémon Go.
➔ How Do You Know If You’ve Been Shadow-banned in Pokémon Go?
When a Pokémon Go shadow ban has been put in place, players will be notified with a pop-up in Pokémon Go. This notification tells the players that they have been shadow-banned and will no longer be able to encounter or catch rare Pokémon in the game. However, if you’ve missed the shadow ban notification, then you can follow these signs to confirm it:
- • Only common Pokémon will appear on the map, such as Pidgey, Rattata, and Zubat.
- • Known rare Pokémon locations will only show low-tier Pokémon.
- • Third-party location spoofer, scanner, and bots will stop working with your account.
Part 2. How Do I Fix Being Shadow Banned in Pokémon Go
Looking for ways to fix being shadow-banned in Pokémon Go? Look no further! Below, we have mentioned the top fixes that will help you remove shadow bans from the game.
What Should I Do to Remove Shadow Bans in Pokémon Go?
If you receive a 7-day shadow ban, the only way to lift it is by waiting it out. However, there are 2 methods you can follow to prevent this type of ban in the future.
1. Only Use the Official Pokémon Go App
One of the common reasons for shadow-banning in Pokémon Go is using the cracked version of the app. When Niantic detects that you’re using a cracked or modified version of the game, your account is automatically at risk of being banned. To avoid it, try using the official Pokémon Go app. It will help you avoid the ban and provide you with an amazing gaming experience.
2. Avoid Frequent Location Changes
As we all know that frequent location changes can also cause a shadow ban. Try to follow the cooldown timer schedule to avoid the ban in Pokémon Go. It ensures your gameplay appears realistic.
Here is the updated cooldown schedule:
| Distance | Cooldown Time |
|---|---|
| 1-5 km | 1 Minute |
| 6-10 km | 2 Minute |
| 11-100 km | 10 Minute |
| 101-250 km | 15 Minute |
| 251-500 km | 22 Minute |
2. How to Avoid Shadow Ban in Pokémon Go
One of the best ways to avoid Pokémon Go Shadow Ban is by using a reliable location spoofer. You’re in luck because we have just the right tool for you: MocPOGO. It is an all-in-one location spoofing app available on Android and iOS, allowing users to change location in 1 click. With the help of this tool, you can teleport to any location worldwide without getting caught, especially in AR games. The standout feature of this tool is that it works without jailbreaking or rooting the device. Further, it offers an intuitive interface, which is best for non-tech and beginner users.
168,282 people have downloaded it.
- Spoof location in real-time and avoid different types of bans such as Shadow, Soft, Temporary, and Permanent.
- Safely avoid Pokemon go shadow ban by change iPhone location from an Android device.
- Have various types of spoofing modes to play Pokemon Go, which include Teleport, Two-Spot, Multi-Mode.
- Have Windows/Mac and App versions and support the latest iOS 26 / Android 15.
How to Spoof iOS Location without Getting Shadow Banned?
Step 1 Download the MocPOGO app on your Android device and launch it. Now, select the iOS Mode button available at the top right corner.
Step 2 A Bluetooth pairing guide will appear on your screen. Follow it to pair an Android and an iPhone via Bluetooth.
Step 3 Once you have successfully paired both devices, a “Connection Successful” notification will appear on your screen.
Step 4 Now, adjust the location on the Android app, and within seconds, the iPhone’s GPS will update instantly.
Part 3. FAQs about Pokémon Go Shadow Ban
Q1: How long do shadow bans last in Pokémon Go?
A shadow ban in Pokémon Go lasts from 7 to 14 days. During this time, you’ll only encounter common Pokémon, and rare spawns will disappear from your map.
Q2: Can I still play while Shadow is banned?
Yes, you can play while Shadow banned in Pokémon Go. However, your gameplay experience will be limited. During this period, you will only be allowed to catch common Pokémon such as Pidgey, Rattata, and Zubat.
Q3: Do shadow bans get lifted?
Shadow bans are temporary and do get lifted after a cooldown period of 7 to 14 days.
Q4: What’s the difference between Pokémon Go soft ban and shadow ban?
Soft and shadow bans are different from each other. With a soft ban, you can’t catch Pokémon, spin Pokestops, and more. However, with the shadow ban, you are only limited to catching common Pokémon.
Conclusion
In this guide, we’ve explored everything you need to know about Pokémon Go Shadow Ban, including how to avoid it. The best way to avoid a shadow ban in Pokémon Go is by using a reliable location spoofing tool such as MocPOGO.
168,282 people have downloaded it.
