WhatsApp has placed multiple user accounts under review for up to 24 hours following what appears to be an automated enforcement action that temporarily restricted access to the messaging platform.
The disruption, which affected users in several countries including India, began on Monday evening, prompting widespread complaints across social media.
Users reported receiving a notification stating that their accounts were being reviewed to verify compliance with WhatsApp’s Terms of Service.
The message informed affected users that their account activity and device information were being checked and that a decision would typically be communicated within 24 hours.
During the review period, users were unable to access key WhatsApp features.
Responding to the reports, a WhatsApp spokesperson acknowledged that the company’s automated systems may occasionally make mistakes while attempting to detect abusive activity.
“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,” the spokesperson said.
The notification directed users to resources explaining responsible use of the platform and information relating to compromised or stolen accounts.
Several affected users said they had done nothing that violated the platform’s policies and appealed for their accounts to be restored.
One user wrote on social media that the account had been disabled without explanation despite using only the official WhatsApp application, while another said the restriction had disrupted work-related communications.
WhatsApp has not disclosed the number of accounts affected or the cause of the review process.
