Kicked due to suspicious activity

If you have been disconnected from a match with a "kicked due to suspicious activity" message, please don't panic. While this automated safety system is in place to keep matches fair, we are actively working on fine-tuning it so legitimate players don't get caught in the crossfire!

Why could this happen?

• Network & Connection Issues: Temporary server desyncs, high ping, or sudden lag spikes can cause data packet mismatches. The server can mistake severe rubberbanding for an exploit and trigger a safety disconnect. Make sure you are playing on your closest regional server, and try turning off any internet-affecting programs (like VPNs or network accelerators). You can check your current ping in-game by pressing F11 to open the debug menu.

• In-Game Bugs: We are currently patching a few gameplay bugs—such as characters flying after a Trampler collision—that can trigger unintended automated kicks.

• Software Conflicts: Corrupt anticheat installation, unupdated OS, Always-on anti-cheats from other games, aggressive software overlays, third-party antivirus programs can actively block Sand's anti-cheat from initializing properly.

• For Steam Deck & Linux, please make sure you have the Proton BattlEye Runtime installed from your Steam library.

Temporary Matchmaking Penalties

To keep matches fair, getting kicked a few times may trigger a temporary penalty. If you find yourself unable to queue back up immediately, it is just a temporary cooldown that usually lasts 1 hour and clears up on its own!

Rest assured we are also working to optimize these thresholds so you can spend your time playing the game instead of waiting on the sidelines.

If you’ve gone through everything above—and the related articles—and are still experiencing persistent kicks, please let us know by filling out the form below.

Bans

Keep in mind that a BattlEye ban is different from a suspicious-activity kick or temporary matchmaking penalty. If you receive a BattlEye ban message—usually Error 41—our game support team can’t remove it. Please submit your appeal directly through BattlEye Support: https://www.battleye.com/contact/

For other bans or restrictions, make sure you go through the troubleshooting steps above and then fill out the form below with as much detail as possible. If we need more information or can take further action, our team will contact you.