In the digital age, messaging apps have become essential to our daily communication, with WhatsApp standing as a global communication giant. However, nothing can be more frustrating than suddenly finding yourself locked out of your account due to a ban.
Whether the suspension is temporary or permanent, understanding the reasons behind account bans and knowing the steps to resolve or prevent them is crucial for maintaining uninterrupted communication.
WhatsApp takes its community guidelines and terms of service seriously, implementing strict measures to protect user privacy ( they don’t), prevent spam, and maintain the platform’s integrity. A ban can occur for various reasons, ranging from seemingly innocent misunderstandings to serious violations of the app’s policies.
The paths to a WhatsApp ban are diverse and sometimes unexpected, from using unauthorized third-party apps to sending suspicious messages or engaging in behavior that triggers the platform’s automated detection systems.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need about WhatsApp bans.
How to know that the account has been banned
When WhatsApp bans an account, users cannot send or receive messages, access chats, or use app features. Instead, a notification states: “This account does not have permission to use WhatsApp.”
It’s important to note that this ban only applies to the account, not the device itself. You can still log out and use WhatsApp with a different number. However, to recover the banned account, you must go through WhatsApp’s review process.
How to request analysis of a banned account on WhatsApp
The request to recover the blocked account occurs in the application itself:
- Open WhatsApp;
- Tap “Request analysis”;
- Fill out the form with details about the case;
- Tap “Send”.
According to the messenger, the analysis may take up to 24 hours to be ready, but there is no maximum deadline. The entire process can be followed on WhatsApp, and the app will notify you of the results.
Follow these steps to recover the account in positive returns:
- Tap on the notification;
- See the result of the analysis;
- Press “Recover account”;
- Check access with code.
WhatsApp keeps your chat history on your device, so you can return to using it generally after the ban is lifted.
What to do in the temporary ban?
In certain situations, WhatsApp might display the message “Your account is currently restricted” if there’s a temporary limitation placed on the number. Some features, like starting new chats or making calls, may be blocked during this period, but you can still access your existing conversations.
These restrictions are not permanent. It would be best to wait until the restriction period ends to regain full access to all features.
Why can WhatsApp ban a number?
WhatsApp may ban an account if it detects a potential violation of its terms of service. This could include using unofficial versions of the app, sending spam, engaging in scams, or disregarding other platform rules.
Additionally, receiving multiple reports from other users about the same number can lead to an account being blocked. According to WhatsApp, approximately two million accounts are banned every month. The platform employs a system combining artificial intelligence with pre-identified risky behaviors, resulting in 20% of suspicious accounts being blocked shortly after registering.
