What the error means
Every SPL token mint can set a freeze authority. The holder of that key can freeze a token account, and the SPL Token program then rejects transfers out of it with the error "Account is frozen" (error code 0x11, AccountFrozen). It does not matter who signs the transaction.
What it does and does not do
- A freeze is reversible. The same authority can thaw the account, so the tokens are locked, not destroyed.
- Only the mint's freeze authority can thaw it. You cannot unfreeze your own account.
- A frozen account cannot be closed while it holds a balance.
How to check
- Open the token's mint on a block explorer and look for a freeze authority. If none is set, the account cannot be frozen.
- Look at your token account's state. Wallets and explorers show "frozen" for a frozen account.
- If a freeze authority is set, contact whoever controls it. For a stablecoin this is usually the issuer.
Before you buy
A token with a live freeze authority can lock holders at any time. Rug checkers list this check, see the rug checkers page. Token creators let projects revoke it, see the token creators page.