Unban Your Device in PUBG Mobile: Full Guide

If your phone has been banned from PUBG Mobile, the ban is tied to your device’s hardware identifiers, not your account, and the only reliable fix is to replace those identifiers or use a different device. This guide explains why device bans happen, what actually works to lift them, and what to avoid so you don’t make the situation worse.

Why PUBG Mobile Bans Devices

PUBG Mobile’s anti-cheat system, which is part of the game client and server-side checks, flags devices that have been used to run cheats, modded APKs, or automation tools. When the system detects such activity, it records the device’s unique hardware IDs—typically the IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) and Android ID—and adds them to a ban list. This means even if you create a new account, the game will still refuse to launch on that phone, showing an error like “Your device is banned.”

Device bans are more severe than account bans because they are designed to stop repeat offenders who simply make new accounts. The ban is stored on the game’s servers, so clearing the app’s data or reinstalling the game will not remove it. The only way to play again on the same physical phone is to change the hardware identifiers that the game uses to recognize your device.

What Actually Unbans a Device

There is no official “unban” button or customer support request that will remove a device ban in PUBG Mobile. The game’s support team will not lift a hardware ban because they cannot verify that the device is no longer being used for cheating. The practical solutions that players use fall into three categories:

• Change the IMEI and Android ID — using a root app or a PC tool to write new identifiers to the phone. This is the most common method and works on most Android devices.
• Use a different device — simply play on another phone or tablet that has never been banned. This is the safest and easiest option, but it costs money if you don’t have a spare.
• Factory reset with a different ROM — flashing a new custom ROM can sometimes change the Android ID, but it rarely changes the IMEI, so this alone often fails.

On iOS, device bans are much harder to bypass because Apple restricts IMEI changes. In practice, an iPhone that is banned from PUBG Mobile cannot be unbanned without hardware-level modification, which is not feasible for most users. The realistic advice for iOS is to use a different device.

How to Change IMEI and Android ID (Android)

Before attempting any of this, understand that changing your IMEI is illegal in many countries, and it can break your phone’s cellular connectivity if done incorrectly. Proceed at your own risk, and back up your data first. The general steps are:

1. Root your phone using a tool like Magisk or SuperSU. Rooting voids your warranty and can brick the device if done wrong.
2. Install a root-enabled app such as “Device ID Changer” or “IMEI Changer” from a trusted source. Avoid random APKs from forums.
3. In the app, generate a new random IMEI and Android ID. Write down the original values in case you need to restore them.
4. Apply the changes and reboot the phone.
5. Open PUBG Mobile and check if the ban is gone. If the game still detects the device, try a different set of identifiers.

Note that some devices have a second IMEI for dual-SIM support, and you must change both. Also, the Android ID is stored in a system settings database, so a simple factory reset may not change it—you need a root app to force a new one.

Common Mistakes That Keep You Banned

• Only clearing app data — this does nothing because the ban is server-side.
• Changing only the Android ID — the IMEI is also checked, so you must change both.
• Using a free VPN — a VPN changes your IP address, not your device ID, so it won’t help.
• Reinstalling the same modded APK — if you install the same hacked version, the game will re-ban the device immediately.
• Creating a new account on the same device — the device ban applies to all accounts.

Risks and Safety Concerns

Changing your IMEI is not just a game issue; it can have real-world consequences. In many jurisdictions, tampering with IMEI is a criminal offense because it can be used to evade law enforcement or bypass carrier locks. Additionally, a wrong IMEI change can permanently brick your phone’s radio, meaning you lose the ability to make calls or use mobile data. Rooting also exposes your phone to malware, because you are granting system-level access to apps that may not be trustworthy.

If you decide to proceed, always keep a backup of your original identifiers and know how to restore them. Use only well-known tools like those from XDA Developers, and never pay a random online service to “unban” your device—those are scams that steal your money or personal data.

Alternatives to Unbanning Your Device

If changing identifiers seems too risky or illegal in your country, consider these alternatives:

• Play on a different device — borrow a friend’s phone, use an old phone, or play on an emulator (but note that emulators have their own ban risks if not official).
• Contact PUBG Mobile support — if you believe the ban was a mistake, you can submit a ticket through the official website. Provide proof of purchase and explain the situation. While device bans are rarely overturned, it is the only official channel.
• Wait for the ban to expire — some device bans are temporary (e.g., 1 year), but most are permanent. There is no public information on the exact duration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I unban my iPhone from PUBG Mobile?

In practice, no. iOS devices do not allow users to change IMEI without hardware-level modifications, which are not feasible. The only realistic option is to use a different iPhone or an Android device.

Will a factory reset remove the device ban?

No. A factory reset clears user data but does not change the hardware identifiers that the ban is tied to. On some Android versions, the Android ID is reset, but the IMEI remains the same, and the game checks both.

Is it legal to change my IMEI?

It depends on your country. In the US, the FCC has ruled that modifying IMEI is illegal under the Digital Millennium Copyright Act. Many other countries have similar laws. Check your local regulations before attempting it.

How long does a device ban last?

PUBG Mobile does not publicly disclose ban durations. Some players report temporary bans of a few months, while others are permanent. Assume it is permanent and act accordingly.

Can I use a VPN to bypass the ban?

No. A VPN changes your IP address, but the ban is tied to your device’s hardware IDs, not your IP. The game will still recognize the device and block it.

What if I change my IMEI and then get banned again?

If you get banned again, it means the game detected the new identifiers as well, likely because you used the same cheating method. You would need to change them again, but this creates a cycle that is risky and likely to fail eventually.

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