You likely use WhatsApp to catch up with your friends and family. However, the popularity of the messaging service has led to businesses also using the platform to reach out to customers. Spam is also a big issue on WhatsApp, with scammers using the service to target potential new people.
If you are regularly flooded with spammy or unwanted messages from businesses on WhatsApp, follow this guide to see how you can block them.
What to Know About Blocking Spam Messages on WhatsApp
WhileWhatsApp is safe to use, scammers have been trying to use the platform to their advantage to fool unsuspecting users. And with WhatsApp opening its service further to businesses, you must have seen an influx of unwanted messages from unknown numbers and businesses.
There’s not much you can do about these messages except for blocking or muting them. Once you block a number or business on WhatsApp, they cannot reach out to you again on the platform. They also cannot view your profile photo, last seen status, or call you using WhatsApp.
Scammers have become smart, so you should knowhow to recognize WhatsApp spam. And when you do, block that contact right away for your own security.
How to Block and Report Spam Messages on WhatsApp
WhatsApp makes it relatively easy to block unknown numbers or businesses. you’re able to even report them for harassment if needed. The process of blocking a business or an unknown number on WhatsApp is the same.
Depending on the number of reports received and the messages sent, WhatsApp could ban businesses or accounts from its platform if they violate its Terms of Service. You can follow the same steps to block and report a business or scammer from WhatsApp on your desktop or the web app.
Sadly, there’s no way to prevent businesses or unknown people from messaging you on WhatsApp in the first place. As long as they have your number, they can initiate a conversation with you. Once you receive a message though, you are free to block and report them.
Thankfully,WhatsApp lets you silence incoming calls from unknown numbers, so scammers or businesses cannot disturb you with unnecessary calls.
If you ever need to unblock a number, head over toWhatsApp Settings > Privacy > Blocked contacts. From here, tap the number or business you want to unblock and selectUnblock. Once removed, you can start a conversation with that number or business.
How to Mute Businesses on WhatsApp
In some cases, you may not want to completely block a business on WhatsApp. In such cases, mute them temporarily, so you can still access your chat with them when required.
Stay Safe on WhatsApp
With WhatsApp becoming a key part of our lives, it is important you take all important precautions to keep your account safe. Meta has added several privacy-oriented features in WhatsApp in recent years that you should take advantage of.
This includes setting up two-factor authentication for your account and enabling end-to-end encryption for your backups.
