Hoping someone can help out....data tethering a good option?

Anna1234 · #1 03-02-2020

I used to have 3 Etsy shops for years (one supplies and 2 digital downloads) and did everything by the book.....had them linked, nothing against the rules, no infringements, etc etc. About a year ago I started travelling often and decided to use a paid VPN service for the download shops while using hotspots, just in case. A few months ago all 3 accounts were suddenly deactivated without any emails and I was told via chat that Etsy would not be doung anymore bussiness with me.

I tried to get back a few time using different windows user account, paypals, images and ip's from the VPN, but all accounts were deactivated within 48hrs after opening.

Browsing this forum has made me believe using a VPN is the cause of all this, so I'm thinking about using my cellphone for data tethering as I have never used it to log on. Problem is though, that with my current plan tethering is blocked and I'd have to spend an extra €20 a month for at least a year for it to become available.

So, I'd like to know if there's a good chance this will work of if it will likely put me back hundreds of euros and just get me more deactivated accounts.

Thank you.

DrunkOrsonWelles · #2 03-05-2020

Wow, I had no idea they're suspending people just for using a VPN. Have you tried emailing them instead of chatting to appeal the decision? I've been using my phone as a hotspot for a few weeks with my new account and I've been fine so far. If an appeal doesn't work, create a new account. I'd look into switching to a phone plan that will let you tether (or upgrade your phone if that's the issue) or use your internet without the VPN connection. Any IP address you've had on your previous account will lead your new account to be suspended so be careful.

Anna1234 · #3 03-06-2020

I don't know for sure if the vpn is the cause, but that's all I can think of.
I have emailed a support email address I found (integrity), but no response.

I'll try your suggestions for tethering, thank you. Unfortunately my basic home ip was used besides the vpn, so I can't use that anymore.