WhatsApp, the popular instant messaging platform, has recently announced its actions against over 6.5 million problematic accounts in India during the month of May. These measures were taken in accordance with the new IT Rules 2021. The company proactively banned 2.42 million accounts even before receiving any user reports. This article delves into the details of WhatsApp's account actions, user safety report, and the introduction of a new feature for chat transfer using QR codes.
WhatsApp's Account Actions in India:
WhatsApp, with a user base exceeding 500 million in India, recorded a substantial number of over 7.4 million banned accounts due to their problematic nature in April. In May, the platform received 3,912 reports related to grievances, including "ban appeals," and addressed 297 cases with appropriate action. "Accounts Actioned" refers to instances where WhatsApp took measures such as banning or restoring an account based on the received reports.
User Safety Report and Proactive Measures:
WhatsApp's report on user safety provides insights into user complaints, the corresponding actions taken by the platform, and the proactive measures implemented to address abuse on the platform. The aim is to enhance user safety and ensure a secure messaging experience for all users.
Introduction of QR Code Chat Transfer Support:
WhatsApp has introduced a new feature called QR code chat transfer support, allowing users to seamlessly transfer their chats from one device to another. This functionality simplifies the process of switching from an old to a new phone and helps users transfer their accounts quickly. However, it is important to note that QR code chat transfers only between devices running the same operating system.
Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Meta (formerly known as Facebook), announced the new feature through his official Facebook account. He shared a video showcasing the functionality and highlighted that chats can now be transferred more privately, without leaving the user's devices.
What to Do If Your WhatsApp Account Is Banned:
If your WhatsApp account gets banned, you will receive a message stating, "This account is not allowed to use WhatsApp." If you believe your account has been banned mistakenly, you can email WhatsApp or use the "request a review" feature within the app. The review process requires entering a 6-digit registration code sent via SMS. After entering the code, users can submit their review request and provide additional details to support their case.