Account Closures: Safeguarding Our Clients and Kraken

To protect both our clients and the integrity of Kraken, we may close accounts following a thorough internal review. Account closures are initiated only when we identify prohibited activity or determine there is a significant risk of fraud.

We’ve compiled some frequently asked questions to address common inquiries and concerns.

We don’t take the decision to close an account lightly. However, in some cases, we must do so to protect both our clients and Kraken. These decisions are made after thorough internal review, and due to privacy and security reasons, we cannot disclose any details regarding account closures. This policy applies across all our support channels, including Reddit. We understand this can be frustrating, but it’s crucial for maintaining a secure environment for all users.

While we see frequent posts about account closures, it’s important to remember that people generally post when they encounter issues or need help. Clients who use their Kraken account daily without problems typically don’t post about their positive experiences, which can make closures seem more frequent than they are.

For detailed information on the rules, guidelines, and restrictions that apply to your Kraken account, we encourage you to review our Terms of Service to ensure your account’s good standing is maintained.

When an account is closed, all services are immediately disabled, and further use of your Kraken account is not permitted. However, you can withdraw your remaining crypto and cash balances to a previously used wallet or bank account, unless further verification or legal and compliance restrictions apply. While access to your account may be limited, you will still be able to retrieve your remaining balances.

Once a withdrawal attempt is made, the transaction will be placed on hold for manual review as a security precaution. This measure ensures that the funds are being withdrawn only to an account owned and controlled by the client.

Account closure decisions are generally final. However, if you believe your account was closed in error, our support team can escalate your case for a second review. If the decision changes, you will be notified by email.

Opening a new Kraken account is not permitted. However, account reinstatement may be considered if your appeal is successful.

As part of the account closure process, withdrawals undergo a manual review. Your withdrawal request will be placed on hold until one of our specialists verifies the details and releases the funds.

To avoid delays, please ensure you are withdrawing in the currency and to the bank account or withdrawal address specified in the closure notice you received by email. This is a standard procedure, and your account will remain open until the withdrawal is processed.

The unfortunate reality of the crypto industry is that it attracts scammers and fraudsters. Many of the accounts that are closed are often involved in fraudulent or illegal/prohibited activities.

Kraken takes fraud vigilance very seriously, as safeguarding our platform and users is our top priority. While account closures may seem concerning, our commitment to fighting fraud helps protect our clients and the broader crypto ecosystem.

To level up your protection and stay safe in the crypto world, check out our series of informative videos created in collaboration with the legendary scam baiter, Kitboga! He’s known for his entertaining yet educational approach to exposing scams and protecting consumers.

Note: If you've willingly closed your Kraken account in the past and have changed your mind, you can request to have your account re-opened by filling out this form and selecting "Reopen a closed account".

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