2 weeks ago, I submitted my very first app for review. It’s my first time publishing, and this is the only Apple Developer account I’ve ever owned. After two weeks of waiting with the app stuck in “Waiting for Review,” I received an unexpected email from Apple.
They said my account has been flagged for removal due to “dishonest or fraudulent activity”, including associations with previously terminated accounts, shared assets/code, or similar metadata. None of that applies to me. I haven’t copied anyone’s code or content, haven’t transferred apps, and I certainly haven’t been involved in any shady practices.
I followed the rules, built everything myself, and tried to launch my app the right way. Instead of a fair review, I got a termination notice with no actual evidence and no chance to resolve anything before the decision was made. I wasn’t even told what part of my submission triggered the flag.
Now, I’ve appealed the decision, but it’s disheartening. As someone just getting started, this feels like I’m being punished for something I didn’t do — maybe even mistaken for someone else. And with app transfers and earnings frozen, it just adds more stress.
I’m sharing this to raise awareness and to hear from others — has this happened to you or someone you know? It’s scary that a company as influential as Apple can shut down a small developer’s dreams without proper context, communication, or support.
Apple, if you're reading this — please give new developers a fair chance. Don’t group us into fraudulent activity just because of similarities or associations we had no idea about.
— A frustrated but still hopeful dev
