Understanding Related Account Suspensions on Amazon in 2025

Picture this: you log into Seller Central and see a message that your account is linked to another banned seller. You’ve never even heard of this other business, yet Amazon has shut you down. That’s the reality of an Amazon related account suspension. Did you know that simply sharing a Wi‑Fi network or using the same VA as another brand can get you flagged? Amazon is increasingly aggressive about cracking down on networks of sellers it thinks are connected. In 2025 the algorithms are stricter and less transparent, meaning innocent sellers get caught in the net. This guide explains what a related account suspension is, the behaviors that trigger it and how to protect yourself. To help search engines surface this resource, we use terms like Amazon related account suspension, related account suspension 2025 and Amazon account linking detection.

You’ll also learn how SellerRM helps Amazon sellers separate their operations and, if necessary, craft a persuasive appeal through our sister firm AmazonSellersAppeal.com.

What Is a Related Account Suspension?

Amazon’s enforcement system looks for connections between seller accounts. When it believes your account is linked to another banned or suspended account, it sends a notice that your selling privileges are restricted. The punishment is severe – Amazon can restrict or remove your selling privileges even if you haven’t violated any policies. Worse, Amazon rarely tells you what triggered the link, so understanding the potential triggers is crucial for mounting a defense.

Common Triggers That Link Accounts

Amazon uses automated tools, device fingerprints and behavioral signals to detect relationships between accounts. Many sellers are surprised by what constitutes a “link.” We’ve seen a client lose selling privileges because they let a relative log in from the same laptop, and another who shared an accountant with a suspended seller. Triggers include:

Shared IP addresses: Logging in from the same home, office or public Wi‑Fi network.
Shared devices or browser fingerprints: Using the same computer or browser across multiple seller accounts.
Shared payment methods: Identical credit cards, phone numbers or email addresses on more than one account.
Shared bank accounts: Using the same bank or payout details.
Shared shipping or return addresses: Delivering goods to the same warehouse or home.
Shared employees or service providers: Having the same virtual assistant, staff member or agency manage multiple accounts.
Accessing multiple accounts from one device: Even different logins can be linked by cookies.
Being listed as a contact or legal entity on multiple accounts.

If you’ve launched a second brand, share office space with another seller or outsource account management, any of these links can trigger a flag. SellerRM works with clients to audit their operations and isolate potential overlaps before Amazon does.

Why Amazon Is Getting Stricter

Amazon is battling black‑hat tactics, review rings and counterfeit networks, so it has ramped up automation and tightened detection systems. The downside is that innocent sellers get caught in the crossfire. Amazon doesn’t explain what triggered the suspension and often rejects appeals without solid evidence. Families, agencies or brands that legitimately operate multiple accounts are particularly vulnerable.

What to Do If You Receive a Related Account Suspension

If you are flagged for a related account, follow these steps:

Avoid generic appeals. Amazon wants facts and evidence. Emotional or templated responses without proof are quickly rejected.
Gather documentation. Prove your account is separate by taking screenshots of your ISP and router setup, providing a notarized statement affirming you don’t own or operate the other account, and including proof of independent business registration, bank account, tax ID and phone number. Highlight physical or digital separation, such as different MAC addresses, dedicated VPNs or separate devices.
Write a clear Plan of Action. State that you don’t control the other account, explain your business structure and describe preventive steps like dedicated IP addresses and separate devices.
Submit through the right channel. Use the appeal link in your Seller Central notification or the Performance Notifications tab; don’t open multiple cases.

If this feels daunting, you’re not alone. SellerRM helps clients assemble evidence and craft persuasive Plans of Action. Our appeals team has seen it all – from shared office spaces to misconfigured VPNs – and knows how to tell your story clearly so Amazon can see the separation.

How to Avoid Being Linked to Another Account

The best defense is prevention. Reduce the chance of being falsely linked by following these preventive measures:

Use separate devices and networks for each account; never log into multiple seller accounts from the same browser.
Assign unique bank accounts, credit cards and contact information to each entity.
Train employees and virtual assistants to work on one account per device and browser.
If you run multiple brands legitimately, register them through Amazon’s Multi‑Account Registration Tool instead of sharing credentials.

When to Seek Professional Help

If your appeals are rejected or you can’t determine what triggered the suspension, bring in professionals. Firms specialising in Amazon compliance can trace false linkages, build evidence packages and file detailed Plans of Action. Professional support is especially valuable when related‑account issues involve intellectual property or complex operational ties.

Final Thoughts

Related account suspensions are among the most frustrating problems Amazon sellers face. They feel random and often unfair. But with the right combination of documentation, strategy and persistence, you can get back to selling. Isolate your systems, document everything and stay vigilant. If you want a partner to monitor these risks and handle appeals on your behalf, SellerRM’s compliance strategists and our sister firm AmazonSellersAppeal.com are here to help. We’ll keep your Amazon business protected so you can focus on growth. For more information on Amazon related account suspensions and our comprehensive Amazon compliance services, reach out for a consultation.