NEW DELHI: Multiple WhatsApp users, including many in India, reported on Monday evening that their accounts had been placed “under review,” temporarily restricting access to the messaging platform for up to 24 hours without prior notice.
The issue surfaced around 8 pm IST, with affected users sharing screenshots of a notification from the Meta-owned platform stating that their accounts were being reviewed to verify compliance with WhatsApp’s Terms of Service. According to the message, the company was examining account activity and device information, with most reviews expected to be completed within 24 hours.
Responding to PTI, a WhatsApp spokesperson said the company continuously works to prevent misuse of the platform but acknowledged that enforcement errors can sometimes occur.
“We are always working to stay ahead of those trying to abuse our service and ban accounts to help keep other users safe. Sometimes we get this wrong and if we do, we try to fix it as quickly as possible to get people back to chatting,” the spokesperson said.
WhatsApp also directed affected users to resources explaining responsible use of the platform and guidance on recovering stolen phones or compromised accounts.
Several users took to social media, claiming their accounts had been disabled despite using only the official WhatsApp application.
One user wrote, “My WhatsApp account has been disabled without any explanation. I have already submitted an appeal, but the review page only displays a generic message stating that it will ‘typically be reviewed within 24 hours’. Help me urgently.”
Another user, identified as Saloni on X, posted, “My WhatsApp account was suddenly disabled without any warning. I only use the official app, and my work depends on WhatsApp. Please help. This was so unnecessary.”
The temporary account reviews come as WhatsApp faces increased scrutiny from the Indian government over its proposed username feature, which would allow users to communicate without sharing their phone numbers.
The Centre recently received WhatsApp’s response to a notice seeking clarification on the feature. Officials have raised concerns that usernames could facilitate phishing, impersonation, online fraud and so-called “digital arrest” scams. The government has asked the company not to launch the feature in India until consultations are complete.
WhatsApp has maintained that the username feature remains under development and is expected to be rolled out gradually later this year. The company has said users will still need a phone number to create an account and that the feature will include safeguards such as protections against impersonation and limits on unsolicited contact.
