11 Ways to Fix 'This Account Can No Longer Use WhatsApp' Issue

Have you come across the dreaded message, “This account can no longer use WhatsApp,” when trying to open the app? It’s definitely a frustrating situation - especially if you rely on WhatsApp for everyday communication.

So, what does this message actually mean, and why did it appear ? In this guide, we’ll explain the possible reasons behind it and show you the best ways to fix the problem and regain access to your WhatsApp account.

What Does "This Account Can No Longer Use WhatsApp" Mean?

In simple terms, seeing the message “This account can no longer use WhatsApp” means your account has been banned or restricted from using the app. Like all social platforms, WhatsApp enforces certain rules outlined in its Terms of Service.

If the system detects suspicious behavior or activities that violate these rules, your account may be temporarily or permanently banned. When that happens, you’ll receive this error message whenever you try to open or log in to WhatsApp.

Why You See "This Account Can No Longer Use WhatsApp"?

Here are some common reasons why your WhatsApp account might be banned. Check if any of these apply before trying the fixes for “This account can no longer use WhatsApp.”

Violate WhatsApp's Terms of Service

WhatsApp takes its policies very seriously, and any violation can lead to your account being blocked or banned. Activities such as sending bulk or spam messages, engaging in scams or illegal actions, or using modified or automated versions of WhatsApp are all considered violations.

Receive Multiple Reports from Other Users

If multiple users report your account for inappropriate behavior - such as sending spam, malicious links, or abusive messages - WhatsApp will review the reports. If it confirms that your actions violate its guidelines or harm other users, your account may be permanently banned to maintain community safety.

Engage in Suspicious Activities

If your account shows suspicious or harmful behavior that negatively affects other users or the platform, WhatsApp may still detect and ban it, even if no one reports you. The system automatically monitors for unusual activities to keep the platform safe and secure.

Use Unauthorized Apps

Using an unofficial or modified version of WhatsApp, such as GB WhatsApp or WhatsApp APK, can lead to your account being restricted or permanently banned. These unauthorized apps are not supported by WhatsApp and are often flagged as unsafe because they may compromise your privacy and security.

How to Resolve This Account Can No Longer Use WhatsApp?

Here are some methods to help you unban your WhatsApp account. You can follow these steps on any of your devices with ease.

Way 1. Request a Review in WhatsApp (If Available)

If you think your account was banned by mistake and you didn’t break WhatsApp’s Terms of Service, you can request a review directly within the app. Here’s how:

1. Open WhatsApp and enter your phone number.
2. If your account is banned, you will see a message stating "This account is not allowed to use WhatsApp" with an option to request a review.
3. Tap on "Request a Review".
4. Enter additional details explaining why you believe the ban was a mistake.
5. Submit the request and wait for WhatsApp's response (usually within 24-48 hours).

Way 2. Contact WhatsApp Support via Email

If the in-app review option isn’t available, you can reach out to WhatsApp Support via email. Make sure to include your phone number in the message.

• Open your email and compose a message to support@whatsapp.com.
• Use a subject line like "Appeal for Banned WhatsApp Account – [Your Phone Number]".
• Attach screenshots of the ban message (if possible).
• Wait for a response, which typically arrives within 24-72 hours.

Way 3. Uninstall and Reinstall the Official Version

Using modified WhatsApp apps like GB WhatsApp or WhatsApp Plus can also cause this issue. If you’re using any unofficial version and see the account restriction message, uninstall it immediately and switch back to the official WhatsApp app.

• Uninstall any third-party WhatsApp applications.

• Download the official WhatsApp from the Google Play Store (Android) or App Store (iOS).
• Reinstall WhatsApp and log in using your phone number.
• If your account is temporarily banned, wait for the countdown timer to expire before using WhatsApp.

Way 4. Wait for Temporary Bans to Expire

If "This account can no longer use WhatsApp" issue is temporary (e.g., using automated messaging tools), you may need to wait before regaining access. Temporary bans usually last 24-72 hours. Here's what to do:

• Don't attempt multiple logins, as this may extend the ban.
• Avoid reinstalling WhatsApp repeatedly, as it does not speed up the process.
• Once the ban expires, follow WhatsApp's policies to avoid further restrictions.

Way 5. Check Your Network Settings

If your WhatsApp account is still restricted, check your network connection. A weak or unstable connection can prevent WhatsApp from loading correctly, blocking access to your account.

If you’re on Wi-Fi, try moving closer to the router or switching to a stronger network. If you’re using mobile data, ensure you have enough balance or switch to Wi-Fi. You can also try resetting your network settings to resolve any connection issues.

Way 6. Check for WhatsApp Server Issues

Occasionally, users may face account access issues due to WhatsApp server problems rather than an actual ban. Here's how to verify server status:

• Visit Downdetector and check if WhatsApp is experiencing outages.
• Check if other users are experiencing similar problems.
• If WhatsApp servers are down, wait until they are restored before trying to log in again.

Way 7. Clear WhatsApp Cache and Data

Corrupted cache files can sometimes prevent you from logging into WhatsApp, even if your account isn’t banned. Clearing the WhatsApp cache may help fix the “This account can no longer use WhatsApp” error. Here’s how to do it (Android users only):

• Go to Settings > Apps > WhatsApp.
• Select "Storage & Cache".
• Tap "Clear Cache" and then "Clear Data".

For iPhone Users: iOS doesn’t allow clearing the WhatsApp cache directly. To remove cached data, you need to uninstall and then reinstall WhatsApp. Keep in mind that this will delete all WhatsApp data on your device, including chat history.

Way 8. Change the Linked Phone Number

If your phone number has been blacklisted or blocked by WhatsApp, this issue can occur. In this case, try linking a new phone number to your account. By changing the linked number, your previous WhatsApp data - such as chats, contacts, and call history - can be transferred to the new account, so you won’t lose any information.

1. Open WhatsApp and tap the three vertical dots at the top-right corner, then select "Settings".
2. Go to "Account" and tap "Change Number", then press "Next".
3. Enter your old phone number and country code, followed by your new phone number and country code, then tap "Next".
4. Choose whether to notify all your contacts or only selected contacts about your new number.
5. WhatsApp will send a verification code to your new number. Enter the code, and your account will be updated - allowing you to use WhatsApp again with all your data intact.

Way 9. Remove and Reinsert Your SIM Card

If your SIM card isn’t inserted properly, WhatsApp won’t recognize your number, and you won’t receive the OTP needed to activate your account. Remove the SIM card and reinsert it securely to fix this issue.

Way 10. Update WhatsApp to the Latest Version

Using an outdated version of WhatsApp can sometimes lead to unexpected issues, including login problems or even accidental bans. If you come across the issue of this account can no longer use WhatsApp, ensuring that you are using the latest version of the app is a simple yet essential method.

• Open the Google Play Store (Android) or App Store (iOS).
• Search for WhatsApp in the search bar.
• If the Update button appears, tap it to install the latest version.
• Once updated, restart WhatsApp and check if you can log in.

Way 11. Register a New WhatsApp Account (Last Resort)

If your previous WhatsApp account has been permanently banned with no chance of appeal, the best solution is to create a new account using a verified phone number. Here’s how to set up a new account:

• Get a new SIM card with a different phone number.
• Install WhatsApp from the official app store.
• Register using the new number and complete verification.
• Inform your contacts about the change in your WhatsApp number.

Bonus Tip: Manage Your WhatsApp Data without Any Loss

If none of the previous methods have restored your WhatsApp account, you may need to consider moving your WhatsApp data to a new device or phone number.

WhatsApp does not provide an official way to transfer chat history between different phone numbers or between Android and iPhone. However, third-party solutions like FoneGeek WhatsApp Transfer allow users to seamlessly move their WhatsApp data to a new device without losing messages or media.

Key Features:

• Transfer WhatsApp data between Android and iPhone with a single click.
• Back up WhatsApp data on both Android and iPhone to your computer.
• Restore WhatsApp data backups to iPhone or Android devices.
• Export WhatsApp backups in formats like HTML, PDF, and CSV/XLS.
• Download WhatsApp backups from Google Drive and preview, export, or restore them easily.

FAQs about WhatsApp Account

How long does a WhatsApp ban last?

The duration of a WhatsApp ban depends on why your account was banned and the type of ban applied. For minor issues, you might get a temporary ban lasting anywhere from 30 minutes to just over 48 hours. For serious violations, your account could be permanently banned, with no way to restore access.

How to fix WhatsApp account banned due to spam?

The 11 troubleshooting methods for the “This account can no longer use WhatsApp” error also apply if your account was restricted for spam. To prevent future bans, make sure to follow WhatsApp’s policies and avoid sending bulk messages or spamming other users.

Can I get my WhatsApp account back after a permanent ban?

Unfortunately, no. If WhatsApp Support has permanently banned your account, it cannot be recovered. However, you can register a new WhatsApp account with a different phone number or switch to alternative messaging apps like Viber or Telegram.

How long does WhatsApp take to review an appeal?

The time WhatsApp takes to review an appeal can vary, but it typically ranges from a few hours up to 48 hours. In some cases, especially for complex or high-volume appeals, it may take several days for WhatsApp to respond. You’ll usually receive an email or an in-app notification once they have completed their review.

What happens to my WhatsApp data if my account is banned?

If your WhatsApp account is banned, what happens to your data depends on the type of ban and whether you have backups:

• Temporary Ban: You can’t use WhatsApp for a short time, but your messages, contacts, and media stay safe. Once the ban ends, you get everything back.
• Permanent Ban: You lose access to your account. Your data isn’t deleted immediately, but you can’t use it. Backups on iCloud (iPhone) or Google Drive (Android) may still be there.

Can I use the same phone number to create a new WhatsApp account?

If your WhatsApp ban is temporary, your phone number will become usable again once the restriction period is over, and you can resume using WhatsApp without losing your data. However, if the ban is permanent, your current number cannot be used on WhatsApp anymore, and the only way to continue using the app is by registering a new phone number.

Are there any legal actions I can take if my account is banned unfairly?

Usually, there’s no legal way to force WhatsApp to unban your account because you agreed to their Terms of Service. The best option is to appeal through the app or contact WhatsApp Support. In rare cases, if the ban causes serious loss, you could seek legal advice, but it’s unlikely to succeed.

Conclusion

Seeing the message "This account can no longer use WhatsApp" can be frustrating, but there are ways to fix it. If your account remains banned, consider transferring your WhatsApp data to a new device to protect the chats.

To avoid this issue in the future, always use the official WhatsApp app, avoid spam-like behavior, and comply with WhatsApp's terms. By following these steps, you can keep your WhatsApp account active and prevent unnecessary restrictions.