Snapchat is a fun way to keep in touch with your loved ones. You could be left out of the loop if it’s not working. Now, there are many causes for this issue. For people experiencing these occurrences, this article will explore different ways to fix the problem.
Table of contents
Why is Snapchat Not Working?
Incorrect Username and Password
This is a common issue experienced by several users. In this case, double-check that you’re using the right username and password. You may see the ‘User Not Found’ error message if Snapchat username or password is misspelled.
Internet Connection
The all important need to make any application work. Ensure that your device has a good internet connection. You can try connecting to Wi-Fi incase of a weak cellular service. Restarting your device may also help with internet connection problems.
Unauthorized Apps and Plugins
There is another problem persisting if Snapchat is malfunctioning. The ‘Could Not Connect’ error message is shown if the app detects the use of unauthorized third-party apps or plugins. In this situation, users will not be able to log in or make a new account. If you’re using an unauthorized app or plugin, then uninstall it and only use the official Snapchat app.
Using a VPN with Snapchat
Some Snapchatters who are guilty of using a VPN to connect to the app may have issues creating an account or logging in. This is important to know in case you are using a third party service and having login issues. Try switching to a different network and logging in again.
Un-Root Your Android Device
Many people are not aware that rooted Android devices can’t be used to log into Snapchat. You would see the ‘Login Error’ message if you try to log into Snapchat or make a new account on a rooted Android device. If your Android device is rooted and you can’t log in:
- Try un-rooting your Android device
- Uninstalling third-party apps and plugins
- Reinstalling the official Snapchat app
The best solution in this case is to contact your device manufacturer if you need further assistance.
The Blueprint to Snapchat Issues
Check if Snapchat is Down
If Snapchat is not working, the first thing to consider is that it might not be functional for anyone else either. There are only two places to check whether the whole platform is down. The solution is to try Down Detector. A site that tracks all kinds of services and whether or not they are down. Head over to the Downdetector Snapchat page, and it will be clear whether Snapchat is having issues or not. Check the Live Outage Map as well. This is mostly done to gauge if the problem is restricted to specific regions.
Re-open Snapchat
Sometimes, you can resolve the issue by closing the app and reopening it. In a rare case where Snapchat is still not working, try logging out of your account and logging back in. What this does is resync your local snaps with the server, in turn fixing the problem. Sometimes, uninstalling and reinstalling the app sometimes works too.
Check For Updates
Usually, running an old version of an app does not cause any problems. It might also bring issues in some instances, especially when big changes are implemented to apps. You would benefit by checking for updates. Simply open up the Google Play Store and check for available updates. When you log back into Snapchat, any missed snaps will be awaiting you. This is how you can check for app updates on Android:
- Open the Google Play Store.
- Search for Snapchat.
- Tap on the Snapchat app.
- You should see an Update option if there’s an available update. Click on it.
Check App Network Permissions
Let’s suppose everything else is right. Your internet connection is also strong and works in other apps, this time Snapchat may not have the correct permissions to function. This is often the case when you get a black screen instead of the camera view. Important permissions include Phone, Location and others. There is a straightforward way to check Snapchat’s permissions within the app. This is how to edit permissions in Snapchat:
- Open Snapchat.
- Click on the avatar icon to open your profile.
- Tap the Settings cog icon in the top-right corner.
- Click Permissions. It’s below the Privacy section.
- Missing permissions will say Tap to enable. This will open the system settings to adjust all permissions for the app.
- Go into Permissions and allow Snapchat access to everything it needs.
Clear Snapchat Cache
Most apps download media and different types of data onto your phone. Snapchat can stop functioning if those files are corrupt. Clearing out these files won’t make you lose any data or snaps, so there’s nothing to worry about. How to clear Snapchat cache:
- Open Snapchat.
- Tap on your avatar icon. This opens your profile.
- Click the Settings cog icon in the top-right corner.
- Search for the option Clear Cache. It’s located under Account Actions.
- Tap on it to continue
Snapchat Not Working – Are Issues Concerning?
No, Snapchat is just like any other application. While the issues seem to persist a lot more than on other social media platforms, it’s simply a matter of frustration. Most users have streaks that can be impacted if they cannot log into their accounts. It should not be a concern as we have provided all the ways you would ever need to fix these problems.
We hope that this guide will have you covered any possible issues with the use of Snapchat. Feel free to comment and reach out to us.
