I noticed my DianPing account for the past 5 years got locked (recently arrived in China 6 months after my previous trip). Previously I would just search for stuff but last trip I started buying tickets and dinner packages on it. Never had a problem and paid via WeChat, etc but noticed I get an error page telling me to call support. I tried registering for a new account using my other phone number and when I login now it prompts me immediately for an ID verification. None of the options mention foreign passport so my only option is to back out which kicks me back to the login page.

So as an alternative I sign up for Meituan, which seems to work but if you dig far enough in the app there's an ID verification button. It just doesn't prompt me to do it upon registration. I'm using this to get by for now to find restaurants and recommendations, but I'm mildly frustrated that the account can likely get banned/locked at any point as Meituan and Dianping are run by the same company.

It's happened to me too. I just use it for basic restaurant lookups and (sometimes) reservations and the ID request pops up now and then. I usually just retry and it works, but is annoying.

Also, some restaurants require a deposit when making a reservation from the dianping app. I never do that -- I just call, and every one so far has taken the reservation without the need for a deposit.

Isn't this in response to the government's various real-name registration requirements?

What do you do? You just close the app and try again?

Because my first account got banned basically and I have to call support it says. Using my second phone number, I registered for another app which lets me log in but immediately prompts me for ID verification.

I've been able to get around by just using Meituan for now but it's the same company at the end of the day and if you dig in the settings there's a screen for ID verification. I just haven't been hassled for it, so it's a matter of time before they force that on me too and I can't use Meituan anymore.

I've been using it without logging in. Can you try the same?

Does not work. You can maybe do 1 level of search but any filtering additional searches, etc and you're prompted to login.

I can speak Chinese, maybe I can help you communicate with the platform customer service, and we can work together to find a way to solve this problem

Thanks. I just tried to register again using my phone number. I guess they reset the ban on my account or just deleted it (guessing the latter because I cannot see any of my historical check-ins). No ID check so far. Used it to search and check in to 4-5 places now.

I appreciate your help. I'll reach out to you if I need help later on!

I hope everything goes well with you.◠‿◠