WhatsApp users in India, several other countries report unexpected temporary account lockouts
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WhatsApp users in India found themselves locked out of the messaging platform on Monday evening after their accounts were unexpectedly placed “under review”, temporarily disabling access to chats, calls and other features. Not all users faced this issue.
The reports began surfacing around 8 pm IST, with affected users saying the restriction appeared without any warning. They were shown a notice that read, “Account in review. Date requested: 3 Aug 2026. Your account activity and device info is being checked to make sure it follows our Terms of Service. We will notify you of the result typically within 24 hours.”
Fortune India reached out to WhatsApp about the issue. Responding to queries, a WhatsApp spokesperson said, “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.”
Similar complaints surface overseas
The reports were not confined to India, as users in several other countries also shared similar experiences, saying their accounts had been placed under review despite no apparent change in how they were using WhatsApp.
Foreign media reported cases from countries including Oman, Nigeria, Mexico, Spain, Chile, Israel, Russia and Ireland. While the complaints point to a broader issue affecting users across multiple regions, WhatsApp has not given a reason for what triggered the reviews or disclosed how many accounts were involved.
Social media fills with complaints
As the reports spread, X was flooded with users seeking answers and asking Meta to restore access to their accounts. Several said the temporary restrictions disrupted both routine conversations and work-related communication.
One user wrote, “My WhatsApp account was suddenly restricted while I was using only the official WhatsApp Messenger and WhatsApp Web. The web page froze, refreshed automatically, and immediately my account showed This account can’t use WhatsApp. I have already submitted an in-app review and received a support ticket. My account contains years of important personal and professional data. Please conduct an urgent manual review and restore my account if this is a false positive.”
Another user posted, “Hi @Meta @WhatsApp
My WhatsApp account got locked is under review. Since 3rd August and today is 4th August. I was engaged in usual work and chats. It’s blocked for 24 hours and will affect my work directly. Please help with solution ASAP.”