You may have received spam from an unauthorized third party and not WhatsApp.

We work diligently to reduce any spam messages that come through our system. Creating a safe space for users to communicate with one another is a priority. However, just like regular SMS or phone calls, it is possible for other WhatsApp users who have your phone number to contact you. Thus, we want to help you identify and handle these messages.

Unwanted messages from unauthorized third parties come in many forms, such as spam, hoax and phishing messages. All these types of messages are broadly defined as unsolicited messages from unauthorized third parties that try to deceive you and prompt you to act in a certain way.

You may be the target of a deceptive scheme if any of the following describes a message you receive, via WhatsApp or email:

• The sender claims to be affiliated with WhatsApp.
• The message content includes instructions to forward the message.
• The message claims you can avoid punishment, like account suspension, if you forward the message.
• The message content includes a reward or gift from WhatsApp or another person.

What to do if I receive these messages?

We always advise you to block the sender, disregard the message and delete it. To learn more about blocking, please read this article. To avoid exposing your contacts to potential harm, please never forward these messages to them.

For more information about hoax messages in general, please read our blog.