This phone number can't use WhatsApp: how to request a review

The notice means the number is banned. Open WhatsApp on the phone with that number, tap Request review and follow the prompts. The notice says most reviews are completed within 24 hours, and a notification arrives when WhatsApp has decided. If there is no Request review option, the ban is final and cannot be appealed.

What are the steps?

1. 1Open WhatsApp, or WhatsApp Business, on the phone with the banned number. The notice appears as soon as the app opens.
2. 2Tap Request review and follow the prompts.
3. 3Wait. Open the app to check the status.
4. 4If the ban is lifted, the app shows 'This account can now use WhatsApp'. Verify the number again, then restore your chat backup.

One review covers one number. If several numbers were banned, each needs its own request, made in the app on that number.

Why do numbers get banned?

• Too many messages to people who do not have your number saved.
• The same message sent to too many people.
• Too many people blocking you.
• Too many groups created with people who do not have your number saved.
• Too many messages to a broadcast list.
• Using a modified copy of WhatsApp, or scraping other users' numbers or profile photos.

None of these has a published threshold. Receiving a flood of messages does not cause a ban, and nor does the Wi-Fi you use. Bans are based on account activity.

What should you do while you wait?

• Do not register the number on another phone or app.
• Check your last backup date. A review does not guarantee a restore.
• Think about what triggered it, so it does not happen again.

More on causes and on whether a ban is permanent or temporary is in what to do when WhatsApp bans a number.

When the number under review is one of several a team answers on, the chats on its other numbers stay in one shared inbox, each with an owner, while that phone is sorted out. WavesFlo can also send a number alert to Slack or Microsoft Teams when a connection drops, so nobody finds out from a customer.