On July 24, 2025, PayPal permanently limited my account without warning or explanation after 25+ years of good standing. Despite multiple requests, PayPal refuses to either explain their decision or close my account to remove my personal information.
Timeline of Events
April 21, 2000: Created PayPal account in good standing
July 24, 2025: Account permanently limited via email with vague "high risk" explanation
July 25-August 2025: Multiple customer service contacts requesting explanation - denied
August 2025: Filed complaint with Illinois Attorney General
August 25, 2025: PayPal responded to AG with boilerplate letter refusing all requests
Specific Problems
1. No Explanation Provided
PayPal claims they detected "high level of risk" but refuses to specify what activity triggered this determination. Their only explanation references "confidential criteria" and "proprietary fraud modeling" - essentially claiming they can ban anyone without providing reasons.
2. Cannot Close Account or Remove Data
Despite being permanently banned from using PayPal services, they refuse to close my account. They claim they must keep it open to "protect their interests" and cite "regulatory and legitimate interests" for retaining my personal and financial data indefinitely.
3. No Appeals Process
PayPal provides no mechanism to dispute their decision or request review. Customer service representatives state they cannot provide information and have no authority to escalate issues.
4. Violation of Consumer Rights
This creates an untenable situation where:
I'm banned from using services I've paid for
Cannot remove my personal/financial information
Have no recourse to understand or challenge the decision
Am indefinitely tied to a company that refuses to serve me