WhatsApp bans 75 lakh Indian accounts in a month. Here's how you can avoid being banned

WhatsApp, world's most popular instant messaging service, has made a strong push to tackle online abuse, spam and scams by implementing a record-breaking ban on user accounts. In the month of April, an astounding 7,452,500 accounts were banned in India, marking a notable 58.02% increase compared to the previous month.

This surge in bans represents the highest number of account removals witnessed in India in over a year. Prior to this, 4,715,000 accounts were banned in March, 4,597,000 in February, and 2,918,000 in January.

'India's Monthly Report'

In compliance with the Information Technology Rules of 2021, WhatsApp's "India Monthly Report" reveals that the platform received a total of 4,377 complaints regarding potential privacy infringements. 

WhatsApp's abuse detection system operates at multiple stages of an account's lifespan: during registration, messaging, and in response to user reports and blocks. To further enhance the platform's effectiveness, a team of analysts also evaluates edge cases. 

But why did WhatsApp ban so many accounts in the first place?: 

• In compliance with Indian IT laws.
• An increase in the number of international spam calls on WhatsApp in India.
• Increase in abuse reports.  

Now, before you get into a panic mode, here's how to be safe:

Do not violate WhatsApp's terms of service: Make sure you read and understand WhatsApp's terms of service and adhere to them (or just find a summary if you are too lazy to read the whole thing). Violating these terms can lead to your account being banned. Some common violations include spreading spam, sending bulk messages, using automated bots, or engaging in abusive behavior.

Avoid sending unsolicited or unwanted messages: Do not send unsolicited messages or spam to other users. Respect other users' privacy and only communicate with individuals who have given you permission to contact them.

Do not engage in abusive behaviour: One of the most important thing is remembering that harassment, hate speech, threats, or any form of abusive behaviour are strictly prohibited. Too many reports to your account of abusive behaviour will get your account banned. 

Do not share inappropriate or illegal content: Avoid sharing explicit, offensive, or illegal content through WhatsApp. This includes images, videos, or text that violates copyright laws, promotes violence, or involves illegal activities.

Be cautious with WhatsApp groups: If you are a group admin, ensure that the content shared within the group complies with WhatsApp's guidelines. Monitor the behaviour of group members and promptly remove anyone who violates the rules. If you're part of some WhatsApp group, make sure keep a track the activity of the group.

Do not use unauthorized third-party apps: Avoid using unofficial or modified versions of WhatsApp, as they may violate WhatsApp's terms of service. Stick to the official app from trusted sources such as the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

Do not engage in fraudulent activities: Do not use WhatsApp for fraudulent purposes such as scams, phishing attempts, or identity theft. Be cautious of messages or links that ask for personal information or financial details.

Report and block spam: If you receive unsolicited or spam messages, report them to WhatsApp and block the sender.

Let's say your account gets banned. Then what you can do?

You have two options: You can either email WhatsApp directly or request a review within the WhatsApp app itself. If you choose the latter, you will receive a 6-digit OTP (One-Time Password) that you must enter as part of the review process. 

After entering the provided OTP, you can proceed to submit your request along with relevant details that support your case. Once submitted, WhatsApp will thoroughly review your request and respond promptly upon completion of the review process. AND HOPE FOR THE BEST!