Email account blocked: this is how you get to your data

Suddenly no access to emails, contacts and important documents because the provider blocked your account? That is a real problem, but you are not entirely powerless. What matters is quickly getting clarification and securing your data.

Reach your next steps and the matching ready-made texts in just a few minutes, free of charge:

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Your chances of getting your money back

Providers block accounts for security or terms-of-service reasons (for example a suspicion of misuse). A block can be permissible, but an arbitrary, permanent block with loss of your data is open to challenge.

You can demand a justification, object to the block and, under the GDPR, demand information about your stored data as well as its release/export (Art. 15, 20 GDPR). This way you at least secure your emails and contacts.

What you should do now

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1. Request a justification
Demand in writing the reason for the block and the restoration of access.
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2. Secure the data
Under the GDPR, demand information and a data export (emails, contacts).
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3. Prove your identity
Have proof ready that it is your account (for unblocking).
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4. Escalate
If that does not help, you can involve the data protection authority or consider legal steps.

Frequently asked questions

May the provider simply block my email account?

For security or terms-of-service reasons a block can be permissible, for example on a suspicion of misuse. An arbitrary, permanent block that permanently deprives you of access to your data is, by contrast, open to challenge. Demand a concrete justification and the restoration of access.

How do I get to my emails and data?

Through your right to information and data portability under the GDPR (Art. 15 and 20): you can demand information about the data stored about you and its export; this way you secure emails and contacts, even if the account stays blocked. If the provider does not respond, you can turn to the competent data protection authority.

Take action now

We put together the ready-made texts and the right places to contact for you.

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General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.