Fix Facebook 'Account Restricted' (Marketplace & Ads)

Updated: 11/29/2025

You open Facebook Marketplace to sell an item, but the tab is gone. Or you try to boost a post, and you see red text: 'Account Restricted. You can't use Marketplace or run ads.'. This is usually an automated flag from Meta's AI, which often mistakes normal behavior (like posting too fast or logging in from a new city) for bot activity or scamming.

Table of Contents

Method 1: Verify Identity (The ID Upload)

Meta trusts verified humans. If their AI flagged you, proving you are real is the fastest unlock.

Step 1: Account Quality

Go to facebook.com/accountquality on a desktop computer.

Step 2: Request Review

You will see a 'What you can do' section. Click Request Review. They will ask for a photo of your Driver's License or Passport. Ensure the lighting is good and the text is readable.

Timeframe: Human review usually takes 24-48 hours. Do not submit the request twice, or you will reset your position in the queue.

Method 2: Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Accounts without 2FA are considered 'low trust' by the algorithm. Enabling it boosts your trust score.

  • Go to Settings & Privacy > Settings.
  • Click Security and Login.
  • Scroll to Two-Factor Authentication and turn it on (use an Authenticator App like Google Authenticator, not SMS if possible).

Method 3: The 'Report a Problem' Shake

If you can't access the appeal menu, use the mobile bug report tool.

Open the Facebook App. Navigate to the screen showing the error. Physically shake your phone. A menu will pop up saying 'Report a Technical Problem'. Attach a screenshot and write: 'I am a real user. My access was removed by mistake. Please review.' This routes your ticket to a different support team.