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Pi Coin Holders Still Locked Out—What’s Really Blocking Token Access After KYC?

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Dr. Lorena Nessi
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Key Takeaways

  • Many Pi Network users are experiencing frustration due to ongoing system errors. 
  • The transfer to the mainnet caused technical issues that disrupted wallet access, transactions, and verification steps. 
  • Large token transfers have sparked concern in the community, though some defend the move as a way to protect Pi from low exchange prices. 
  • The Pi Network has responded by supporting the community through social media and its main website, offering general guidelines and reminders.

Blank wallets, system failures, and verification errors after Pi Network’s latest update have sparked frustration across the community.

Pi Network users, or “pioneers”, have stayed active for years, hoping for Pi rewards. 

However, the system has shown instability, raising concerns about trust, support, and the project’s long-term sustainability and credibility.

Users have reported missing balances, failed Know Your Customer (KYC) processes, locked pi,  and app crashes following the recent mainnet migration process and the announcement of the Horizon Upgrade in May 2025.

This article explores why many Pi Network users cannot access their tokens after completing KYC. It also discusses blank wallets, system bugs, migration issues, and possible solutions.

Pi Network’s Horizon Upgrade, Migration Woes, User Complaints, and What’s at Stake

The Horizon Upgrade aims to push Pi Network toward complete decentralization and support for decentralized applications (dApps). 

With over 100 decentralized apps for goods and services built on Pi and a $100 million ecosystem fund, the update promised faster transactions, stronger security, and the end of the final central node.

According to Pi Network, over 12 million users have migrated to the mainnet.

The migration process required users to:

  • Complete KYC verification
  • Secure their Pi wallets
  • Follow the mainnet checklist

However, according to a wave of Pioneer complaints and the Pi Network, the transition has been far from smooth. The Core Pi Team is dealing with the bugs, hoping to manage them before the next transition process, which takes place on June 28, 2025. 

Instead of improved access, many faced missing balances, stalled verification and system errors, to name a few. 

These problems have raised fresh doubts about Pi Network. Some users have questioned whether the project is legitimate or just a scam

Others have blamed poor customer support and expressed frustration over long wait times (sometimes several weeks) in the queue for the migration. 

Complaints across social media highlight delays, unanswered questions, and the need for more support during the most critical phase of migration. 

In the meantime, Pi Network tries to reassure its community by posting on social media, reminding them of the looming 276M Pi token unlock.

How To Take Care of Your Pi Coins

Pi Network has instructed users to protect their wallets and stay alert, pointing out the following:

  • Pioneers should remember to use the Pi Wallet in the Pi Browser.
  • The network’s immutable design means there is no way to reverse transactions. 
  • Phishing attempts, fake wallets, and false information can lead to irreversible damage and empty accounts.
  • Users must remain extremely cautious with their wallet passphrase to avoid permanent loss.

Warning: Use the authentic Pi Wallet | Source: Pi Network
Warning: Use the authentic Pi Wallet | Source: Pi Network

Fraudsters and Scams: Are They Responsible for Pi Network Migration Problems?

As wallet issues continue, some users have blamed fraudsters for the chaos. Fake Pi Wallet sites, phishing links, and cloned apps have surged across social platforms. 

These scams target users desperate to access their balances or fix verification errors, tricking them into entering private passphrases.

But not all problems are caused by bad actors. Many users who followed official steps and used only trusted tools still face locked wallets and broken migration status. 

While scams remain a real threat, especially in moments of confusion, much of the frustration is due to internal system failures rather than external attacks.

Is Tapping Enough? The Debate Over Real Work vs. Rewards in the Pi Network

Some users have expressed their trust in the system. They say they have contributed to the Pi Network and expect support. 

They believe their ongoing effort deserves recognition. 

Others have pushed back, arguing that tapping a button daily does not qualify as real work. 

Still, many pioneers and app developers building on the Pi ecosystem have also put in long hours and technical effort. 

Their specific roles show that different types of contributions exist, each playing a part in Pi’s growth.

How to Fix Pi Network KYC Errors: Top Issues and the 2025 Guide for Pioneers

In response to the problems the community is facing, Pi Network has published guidelines to help Pi Network users spot errors and fix them.

An updated 2025 guide outlines the top 10 most common KYC errors users face during verification and some other guides to fix common issues. These range from mismatched names and blurry selfies to unsupported documents or denied camera access. 

Issues like missing KYC slots or unexplained rejections are also covered. These guidelines aim to make the process smoother by helping users understand what went wrong and how to fix it. 

Each error is matched with a clear description so users can take the proper steps without guesswork.

10 Common Pi errors | Source: Pi Network
10 Common Pi errors | Source: Pi Coins

In the meantime, according to CCN analysis articles, while altcoins are trending upward in the crypto market, Pi continues to show limited reach.

Why One Pi Wallet Holds 276 Million Coins—and What It Means for the Community

There are also ongoing discussions about large Pi coin transfers involving a wallet ending in “ODM.” Some users believe the wallet is connected to the Pi Foundation.

That wallet reportedly holds 276.56 million Pi, valued at about $179.7 million.

While many in the community ask for answers, others defend the move, saying the Core Team wants to protect Pi’s community value and avoid cheap exchange pricing driven by speculation.

Conclusion

Many Pi Network users remain locked out of their wallets despite completing KYC. The Horizon Upgrade aimed to bring decentralization and utility, but technical issues, failed verifications, and system delays have caused widespread frustration. 

Additionally, there are questions around token movements and exchange activity. In the meantime, the Core Team insists on protecting Pi’s real-world value and following their recommendations for the mainnet transition. 

As Day2 of the migration approaches, when the next group of eligible users will be allowed to complete their mainnet transfer, many still await stable access, answers, and support. They fear they could be permanently locked out of the Pi Network.

FAQs

Will Pi Network compensate users who lost access after the Horizon Upgrade?

Pi Network has not confirmed any compensation for users affected by the Horizon Upgrade. The team is focused on fixing technical issues and restoring stability. Any updates on possible compensation would likely appear in the Pi Browser or Safety Center.

Can users reapply for KYC if their previous application failed without a reason?

Reapplying for KYC is only possible if the system allows it. Users should monitor the Pi Browser and Safety Center and social media channels for reapplication updates or fixes.

When will the second migration process open for all users?

Pi Network’s second migration is scheduled for June 28, 2025. However, users must complete KYC and wait for system stability. Delays are possible due to ongoing technical issues.

Are there official Pi Network support channels users can rely on?

Users must rely on the Pi Browser, Safety Center, official social media, or community forums for help and updates.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be, nor should it be construed as, financial advice. We do not make any warranties regarding the completeness, reliability, or accuracy of this information. All investments involve risk, and past performance does not guarantee future results. We recommend consulting a financial advisor before making any investment decisions.
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Dr. Lorena Nessi is an award-winning journalist and media technology expert with 15 years of experience in digital culture and communication. Based in Oxfordshire, UK, she combines academic insight with hands-on media practice. She holds a PhD in Communication, Sociology, and Digital Cultures, and an MA in Globalization, Identity, and Technology. Lorena has taught at Fairleigh Dickinson University, Nottingham Trent University, and the University of Oxford. She is a former producer for the BBC in London, with additional experience creating television content in Mexico and Japan. Her research focuses on digital cultures, social media, technology, capitalism, and the societal impact of blockchain innovation. She has written extensively on digital media and emerging technologies, with her work featured in both academic and media platforms. Her Web3 expertise explores how blockchain technologies shape culture, economics, and decentralized systems. Outside of work, Lorena enjoys reading science fiction, playing strategic board games, traveling, and chasing adventures that get her heart racing. A perfect day ends with a relaxing spa and a good family meal.
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