About temporarily banned accounts
If you received a “Temporarily banned” in-app message, it could mean you’re using an unofficial version of WhatsApp or harvesting information, known as scraping.
Switch to the official app or stop engaging in scraping after being temporarily banned. If you don’t, your account might be permanently banned from using WhatsApp.
About unofficial apps
Unofficial apps are fake WhatsApp apps, developed by third-parties which violate our Terms of Service. We don't support these apps because we can't validate their security practices. Learn more about unofficial apps in this article.
About scraping
Scraping is the automated extraction of information, both targeted and at scale, for any unpermitted purposes. Scrapers might attempt to search for and save users' information. This can include phone numbers, user profile pictures, and statuses from the WhatsApp platform. Acquiring user information through scraping violates our Terms of Service. Learn more about scraping in this article.
- About account bans
- About account bans for unofficial apps
- How to use WhatsApp responsibly
- About harvesting personal information