WhatsApp has recently strengthened its security policies to ensure a safer environment for its users. Many are unaware that Using certain words in your conversations can block your accounts, whether temporarily or permanently. The controversy surrounding this measure has generated all kinds of reactions, from those who consider it a form of censorship to those who see it as a necessity to prevent abuse and the spread of inappropriate content.
In this article, we will explore what those are words that can block your WhatsApp account, how the app detects these terms despite its end-to-end encryption, what penalties you may face, and what to do if you are blocked.
WhatsApp and its policy on banned words that can block your account
WhatsApp is the most used messaging application in the world, with more than 2.000 million of active users. Although their messages are protected with end-to-end encryption, the platform has established a series of rules of use to ensure respectful coexistence and prevent the dissemination of harmful content.
According to their Terms of Service, Whatsapp prohibits the use of language that may incite hatred, illegal content or any message that may be considered harmfulIf a user violates these rules, the platform has the power to block your account temporarily or permanently.
What words can get you blocked on WhatsApp?
Among the words that WhatsApp classifies as prohibited, the following stand out:
- Pornography and pedophilia: Any content that refers to pornographic material or child exploitation may be grounds for sanctions.
- Violence and threats: Sending messages that contain threats, incite violence, or promote racial, ethnic, or religious hatred is prohibited.
- Harassment and discrimination: WhatsApp seeks to eradicate content that can be used to intimidate, humiliate, or harass other users.
- Fake news and misinformation: The app also penalizes the dissemination of fake news or misleading information that could cause harm.
It's important to note that WhatsApp doesn't automatically block users who type these words. However, if a conversation is reported and the company detects problematic terms, it can take action against the offending user.
How does WhatsApp detect these words if the messages are encrypted?
Although WhatsApp highlights that the conversations are end-to-end encrypted, which prevents third parties (including the company itself) from accessing the content of the chats, there are mechanisms to detect abuse.
The main method the platform uses to identify violations is the user reportWhen someone reports a message, WhatsApp receives the last five messages from the reported chat to analyze them and determine if they violated its community standards. If the violation is confirmed, the reported account may be sanctioned.
What penalties can you face on WhatsApp if you use bad language?
The consequences of using prohibited language on WhatsApp can vary depending on the severity of the violation. These are the possible sanctions:
- Temporary block: It is imposed in mild cases and usually lasts a few days. During this time, the user will be unable to access their account.
- Indefinite suspension: In more serious cases or if the offense is repeated, WhatsApp may permanently block the account, preventing access from that phone number.
If the account is permanently blocked, the only option to use the application again is acquire a new phone number and register an account from scratch.
What to do if WhatsApp blocks your account?
If you receive a notification that your account has been blocked, the first thing you should do is verify the reason of the block. WhatsApp usually informs you whether the suspension is temporary or permanent.
In the case of temporary blocks, you just have to wait for the restriction to be lifted. However, if the block is permanent and you believe it was a mistake, you can try to appeal the decision by sending an email to support@whatsapp.comIn the message, explain your case and provide details such as your phone number and device model.
However, the chances of WhatsApp reversing a permanent ban are low, so in most cases the only solution will be to use a different number to create a new account.
WhatsApp has tightened its policies to prevent offensive content and ensure the platform is a safe space for everyone. Although encryption protects the privacy of messages, any user can report inappropriate content, and if a violation is confirmed, the offender's account could be blocked.
To avoid sanctions, it is best to respect the rules of use and avoid sending messages that may be considered offensive or harmful. Share this information so more users know what not to say on WhatsApp..
