From customer service to sales prospecting, WhatsApp is a critical lifeline keeping businesses connected to their customers at all stages of their journey. So you can imagine that a blocked WhatsApp account is a nightmare for any business to wake up to.
That’s why it’s important to know what factors contribute to a blocked account. While it’s not impossible to restore your account, it’s a frustrating process that requires a lengthy review process and isn’t always guaranteed. That’s why prevention is a much stronger strategy. In this article, we’ll walk you through how to avoid the dreaded banned account and what to do if it does ultimately happen.
The red flags: High block or report rates
When someone receives a message from a number they don’t recognize, WhatsApp shows them two options: “Add to Contacts” or “Block and Report”. If too many recipients click “Block” or “Report”, WhatsApp will flag your account and ultimately block access.
A high block or report rate is one of the most common reasons why an account is blocked and can happen if you:
- Buy contacts and cold message people: If someone receiving your message doesn’t recognize your number or expects you to reach out, they’re more likely to report it as spam.
- Reach out to old contacts without context: Failure to introduce yourself or remind a customer of what your business does can feel spammy or even like a phishing attempt.
- Don’t offer an easy opt-out: Customers that can’t easily opt out of receiving your messages are more likely to block you instead.
- Use language that triggers a spam filter: Phrases like “earn money from home” or create a sense of urgency might be legitimate messages but they’re viewed as red flags by WhatsApp.
To avoid a high block rate and your messages being treated as spam, try putting yourself in your customer’s shoes and ask:
- Would I want to receive this message? If I got this message out of the blue, does it feel like a scheme or does it actually provide me real value?
- Do I recognize this number? If I don’t have a business’ number saved, is there enough context in the message that I could recognize who is sending this chat?
- Is there an easy way to opt out of messages? If I don’t want to keep receiving these messages, can I simply opt out or remove myself from the mailing list without blocking the number?
- Am I getting too many messages from this business? How often am I getting marketing messages from a business? Are they adding me to groups or communities that I didn’t ask to be a part of?
With WhatsApp’s 98% open rate, messages need to be personal as unsolicited content can feel especially intrusive. Only message people who have opted in to your mailing list and expect to hear from you to keep your block and report rates low.
Don’t use WhatsApp for prohibited activities
This one should go without saying, but using WhatsApp for anything that violates their Terms of Service will earn your account an automatic block. This includes:
- Sending unsolicited, promotional messages or spam
- Sharing misleading or fraudulent content
- Distributing malware or phishing links
- Engaging in illegal activities
Before launching your campaign, make sure you review the WhatsApp rules and terms of services to ensure your content is compliant. Failure to follow these guidelines will result in an account ban and businesses will automatically lose their Meta Verified subscription.
Automating workflows? Make sure you’re using verified tools
One of the most common reasons why a WhatsApp account is blocked is when a business tries to automate their message sends with a third-party tool.
While many tools do allow for automation, WhatsApp has ramped up its automation enforcement, blocking accounts that use automation to potentially harm WhatsApp users. For example, using an unauthorized automation tool or bulk sending an excessive volume of messages with suspicious links can lead to an account ban.
If your operations have grown to a point where automation is a necessity, we strongly recommend migrating your workflow to the WhatsApp API. Not only will the API platform minimize your risk of getting blocked, but automation is encouraged on the API. You’ll gain access to features like chatbots, automated follow-ups, and templated messages that all fall within WhatsApp’s approved guidelines.
How the WhatsApp API minimizes blocking risks
In addition to applying any of the preventative measures above, migrating your account to the WhatsApp API gives you even more protection against account blocking. The WhatsApp API ensures that:
1. Templates are flagged first, not your entire account. If a customer reports your message, WhatsApp will first block the message template instead of automatically shutting down your whole account. This gives you an opportunity to adjust your messaging before you face permanent consequences.
2. Automation is built-in and compliant. The WhatsApp API is built for automation, so you’re less likely to run the risk of violating terms by setting up chatbots or automated workflows. Businesses using WhatsApp chatbots can also reduce their customer support costs and time while staying fully compliant.
3. Opt-in and consent management is easier. The API integrates with CRM and other marketing automation platforms that make it simple to track who’s opted in, manage preferences, and honor unsubscribe requests.
What to do if your account is blocked
Let’s say the worst case scenario happens and your account gets blocked. You’ll see the message “Your account can no longer use WhatsApp” when you open up your account and will also receive an explanation for why your account was banned.
If you believe this was a mistake, you’ll have an opportunity to request a review directly in the app where you can add details to support your case. If you’re using the WhatsApp API, you’ll also be able to request a review through Meta’s Direct Support panel. To improve your chances of getting your account reinstated, you’ll want to:
- Provide all relevant information about your account and how you’ve been using it
- Explain the situation clearly and acknowledge any mistakes made if applicable
- Outline the steps you’ll take to prevent future violations
While there’s no guarantee that your appeal will succeed, it’s always a best practice to be as transparent and thorough as possible to give you the best shot at recovering your account.
The bottom line
The best way to avoid a WhatsApp account ban is to take preventative measures and ensure you’re following the terms of service from the beginning. Only message people who have opted in, avoid spamming your contact list, and make sure every business delivers quality value.
With over 175 million people messaging businesses on WhatsApp every day, the platform is too valuable to lose access to overnight. By taking the time today to ensure your WhatsApp strategy is compliant with the platform’s guidelines, you’ll be setting yourself up for success in the long run.
See how WhatsApp Messaging can help you scale your WhatsApp strategy or get in touch to schedule a demo today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which WhatsApp features in ActiveCampaign help streamline marketing campaign workflows?
ActiveCampaign streamlines WhatsApp marketing workflows with features like behavioral triggers for real-time messaging, a unified inbox for managing all conversations, and automation builders that let you sequence WhatsApp alongside email, SMS, and social channels. Templates, segmentation, and CRM integration ensure campaigns are both efficient and highly personalized.
How can WhatsApp chatbots in ActiveCampaign improve customer engagement and response times?
WhatsApp chatbots in ActiveCampaign can instantly answer questions, qualify leads, and guide customers through key steps, reducing wait times and ensuring every inquiry gets a timely, relevant response. This automation not only boosts engagement but also frees your team to focus on high-value interactions.
What role does WhatsApp message automation play in scaling personalized outreach?
WhatsApp message automation lets you deliver personalized, timely messages to large audiences without manual effort. By using data-driven triggers and dynamic content, you can scale 1:1 conversations, nurture leads, and follow up at the perfect moment, ensuring every contact receives a tailored experience.
How does ActiveCampaign help businesses reduce the risk of WhatsApp account bans?
ActiveCampaign reduces the risk of WhatsApp account bans by providing an official, compliant integration with the WhatsApp Business API. This ensures all messaging and automation are conducted within WhatsApp’s approved guidelines, including proper opt-in, consent management, and template use. By using only authorized automation and following best practices, businesses avoid the common pitfalls that lead to bans, such as unsolicited messaging or using unverified tools.
Can I manage multi-agent WhatsApp conversations efficiently with ActiveCampaign’s tools?
Yes, ActiveCampaign provides a shared team inbox for WhatsApp, allowing multiple agents to collaborate, assign conversations, and track every interaction. This ensures efficient, coordinated responses and seamless customer experiences, even as your team and message volume grow.
