If you’re an Etsy user or thinking of becoming one, you could be wondering if Etsy allows the use of virtual private networks (VPNs). In this post, we will explore whether Etsy allows the use of VPNs and any potential implications that may arise from using one on the platform.
Does Etsy Allow VPNs?
Yes. Etsy does allow VPNs. There is no rule in the Etsy handbook that forbids the use of a virtual private network.
HOWEVER, This doesn’t mean you should use one. In fact, I highly recommend not using a VPN when accessing Etsy if you are a seller.
Using a VPN as a seller puts your shop at risk of being closed by Etsy, even if you didn’t break any rules. Harsh, I know.
The explanation for this is that many sellers who have had their shops closed for legitimate reasons will often attempt to open a new shop, violating those same rules but with the use of a VPN. Once they are caught once more and banned from the platform again, Etsy will flag that IP assigned to them by the VPN.
The problem here is that VPNs will often rotate IPs, and there is a good chance you would be assigned the same IP that is now flagged by Etsy.
So, if you happen to log in to Etsy using a VPN and the VPN assigns you an IP from the same string as the ban evading user, Etsy will see it as if you’re that same user trying to evade the ban once more and shut down your store. No questions asked.
I’ve been an Etsy seller and Artisanal creator for over 8 years now and have gained so much valuable experience along the way that I would like to share with you. Read more about me here
