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Periskope allows you to efficiently manage bulk actions, such as sending messages across multiple WhatsApp groups and 1:1 chats, or adding and removing users with a single click. However, WhatsApp enforces strict policies against mass messaging and spam, which can lead to account suspensions or bans if not carefully managed. Periskope takes precautions by sending bulk messages with randomized delays to simulate natural messaging behavior, but ultimately, account status remains under WhatsApp’s control. To help reduce the risk of suspensions or bans, this article provides essential best practices and recommendations for safe WhatsApp outreach.

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What Can Trigger a WhatsApp Account Ban?

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1. Using Very New Numbers to Connect and Send Messages

Newly registered numbers are particularly vulnerable to being flagged and blocked. The longer a number has been registered, the more “trustworthy” it appears to WhatsApp’s algorithms. Recommendations:

Warm Up the Number

Before using a number for bulk messaging, send and receive messages with real users for a few days to establish legitimate activity.

Delay QR Code Scanning

Avoid scanning the WhatsApp QR code immediately after registering a new number. Waiting a day or more before connecting helps avoid suspicion.

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2. Complaints About Spam

Receiving spam complaints is one of the main reasons WhatsApp blocks accounts. Users who report your number can quickly flag it as problematic, leading to potential bans.

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Recommendations to Minimize Spam Complaints:

Groups are typically safer environments for bulk messages because users have joined voluntarily and can leave if they wish.

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When Messaging Individual Contacts

Use a “Contact Us on WhatsApp” button on your resources or ads (Here’s a free tool to set it up: https://tools.periskope.app/free-whatsapp-click-to-chat-button) or provide a contact link with a pre-written greeting to initiate a conversation (A free tool to generate personalized WhatsApp links): https://what.sapp.link/ Design Messages to Minimize Blocking Risks
  1. Start the conversation by asking a question. Getting the recipient to respond increases engagement and lowers the likelihood of being flagged as spam.
  2. Include a line such as “Reply with STOP to unsubscribe” at the end of your message. This provides a convenient way for dissatisfied users to opt out without reporting you.
  3. Tailor each message by addressing the recipient by name, making it feel more personal (e.g., “Hello, %client_name%!“).

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3. Suspicious Mass Activity

Sudden, high-volume activity can appear suspicious to WhatsApp’s algorithms and may lead to a ban. Recommendations to Avoid Triggering Suspicious Activity Flags:

Introduce Activity Gradually

If your number hasn’t shown much activity previously, start small and build up progressively.

Avoid Sudden Group Creation

If your account has not previously created groups, suddenly creating multiple groups can appear unnatural. Space out group creation to avoid detection.

Limit Mass Group Additions

Adding many numbers to groups at once can trigger WhatsApp’s spam detection. Add users judiciously to avoid appearing spammy.

Pace Your Outreach

If you haven’t messaged unfamiliar numbers before, avoid contacting a large volume of new recipients at once. Gradually increase messaging activity to build up a “safe” reputation.
By following these best practices, you can reduce the risk of your WhatsApp account being flagged or banned. Keep your outreach activities intentional, respectful, and user-centric, focusing on building positive engagement with your contacts.

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What to Do When Your WhatsApp Account is Banned

If your WhatsApp account is banned, it can be a challenging setback, especially if it impacts your business operations. However, in many cases, you can appeal to have your account reinstated. Follow the steps below to request an unblock and take measures to reduce the risk of future bans.
1

Open WhatsApp and Access Support

Open the WhatsApp app on your phone. If you see the message “Your phone number is banned from using WhatsApp. Contact support for help,” tap on Contact Support.
2

Submit a Clear and Professional Appeal

  • Describe your situation politely in the support form
  • Avoid mentioning mass messaging or third-party automation tools
  • Highlight consent and legitimate usage
  • Include evidence of user consent to receive your messages, if applicable
  • Note if users opted in to be contacted by you at an event
Sample Appeal Message
Dear WhatsApp Support,

I have reviewed your Terms of Service, particularly the "Acceptable Use of Our Services" section,
and believe my number was mistakenly banned. Recently, I contacted individuals who had previously
consented to receive messages from me by sharing their numbers at an event we attended together
[Event link or name here].

I kindly request that you review this ban and reinstate my account.

Thank you for your assistance.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
3

Send and Await Response

Submit the form and wait for WhatsApp’s response. This process typically takes ~24 hours.

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When Your Account is Unbanned: Prevent Future Bans

Review Recent Activity

  • Carefully examine messages and activities before the ban
  • Identify potential triggers that led to the ban
  • Document lessons learned to avoid similar issues

Implement Safeguards

  • Review best practices outlined above
  • Put preventive measures in place
  • Monitor messaging patterns closely

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When Reconnecting Your Number

1

Use WhatsApp on Phone First

  • Limit usage to phone app only for first few days
  • Focus on active conversations with responsive contacts
  • Avoid any one-sided messaging patterns
2

Resume WhatsApp Web Usage

  • Begin using WhatsApp Web after several days of phone-only use
  • Maintain focus on two-way conversations
  • Monitor for any warning signs
3

Reconnect to Periskope

  • Resume platform activities gradually and carefully
  • Review and adjust previous usage patterns
  • Implement learnings from ban experience
  • Maintain strict compliance with best practices
Following these steps helps safeguard your account and ensures your WhatsApp outreach remains compliant and effective. Remember that a banned account can severely impact your business operations.

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Warm Up a New Number

To ensure your new WhatsApp number gains trust and avoids restrictions, it’s important to follow a gradual warm-up process. For a detailed step-by-step guide on warming up numbers and best practices, please refer to our Warming Up Numbers guide page.