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What types of blocks can WhatsApp impose?#

WhatsApp actively enforces its policies and may temporarily or permanently restrict access to app features.

The main types of bans users may encounter are:

Incomplete number block (Warning from WhatsApp)#

This is the initial stage of bans, when WhatsApp signals suspicious activity.

  • Linked Device Ban (Instance Ban):
    WhatsApp may temporarily disable a specific device or session.
    More details in this article

  • Forced logout:
    The account is automatically logged out of WhatsApp, which may be due to a policy violation.
    More details in this article

  • YellowCard:
    A temporary restriction on the account. This is a warning that the account may be blocked.
    More details in this article.

  • Partial block (account restrictions):
    Can be caused by suspicious activity, such as adding a large number of new contacts in a short period of time.

    Your account has restrictions

Group Block#

If WhatsApp detects that a group is violating the Terms of Service, it may be permanently blocked. In this case, members and admins will see a message saying "Group is unavailable"

Group Block

A block means that the group is no longer active and cannot be used to write to, view message history, or perform any actions.

If you are a group admin, you can contact WhatsApp Support to request a review of the block if you believe it was placed in error.

Number block#

This is the stage of the block process where WhatsApp temporarily restricts access to the account. Main reasons for blocking:

  1. Sending a large number of messages
    If a user sends too many messages (especially to unknown numbers), they may be suspected of spam. Violations are recorded automatically or based on complaints from other users. Usually, a temporary block of up to 48 hours is imposed.

  2. Violation of trade policy
    A WhatsApp account can be blocked for non-compliance with the messenger's trade policy. It is prohibited to distribute services that do not comply with WhatsApp policy.
    You can find a full list of prohibited and permitted services in the article.

  3. Using an unofficial WhatsApp application
    Using an unofficial application and (or) an unsupported device is a violation of WhatsApp policy and may lead to an account being blocked.
    You can learn more about unofficial versions of the application in the article on the messenger's website.

Number blocked

Inability to use the number#

This is an extreme measure, in which the number loses access to WhatsApp forever. The reasons may be:

  • Repeated violations (spam, sending prohibited content);
  • Systematic use of unofficial clients;
  • Violations of the terms of use of the application.

Blocking

Recommendations#