What You Cannot Send
WhatsApp prohibits certain content to protect users and maintain platform integrity.
Prohibited Products and Services:
| Category | Examples | Why Prohibited |
|---|---|---|
| Drugs and paraphernalia | Illegal drugs, prescription drugs without a license | Legal and safety concerns |
| Weapons and explosives | Firearms, ammunition, bomb-making materials | Public safety |
| Animals | Live animals, endangered species products | Animal welfare and legal issues |
| Alcohol (in some regions) | Beer, wine, spirits | Age restrictions and local laws |
| Tobacco and vaping | Cigarettes, e-cigarettes, vaping products | Health regulations |
| Gambling | Casinos, sports betting, lotteries | Addiction and legal restrictions |
| Adult content | Pornography, sexual services | Platform policies and legal issues |
| Counterfeit goods | Fake branded products, pirated media | Intellectual property violations |
| Dangerous items | Recalled products, toxic substances | Consumer safety |
Even if legal in your country, WhatsApp may prohibit it globally.
Misleading and Deceptive Practices
You cannot:
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Claim false endorsements or certifications
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Misrepresent product quality or origin
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Use fake scarcity (“Only 1 left!” when you have 100)
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Promise results you cannot deliver
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Impersonate other businesses or individuals
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Use misleading subject lines or preview text
Examples of violations:
❌ “As seen on Shark Tank” (when you were not)
❌ “FDA Approved” (when not actually approved)
❌ “Guaranteed to lose 20kg in 1 week” (unrealistic and unsafe)
❌ “Your account will be suspended” (fake urgency to manipulate action)
❌ “FDA Approved” (when not actually approved)
❌ “Guaranteed to lose 20kg in 1 week” (unrealistic and unsafe)
❌ “Your account will be suspended” (fake urgency to manipulate action)
Harassment and Excessive Messaging
You cannot:
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Send messages to someone who has opted out
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Send messages at unreasonable hours (typically 9 PM to 8 AM local time)
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Send multiple messages in rapid succession
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Use aggressive or threatening language
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Continue messaging after the customer asks to stop
Frequency guidelines:
| Relationship | Max Marketing Messages/Week | Acceptable Hours |
|---|---|---|
| New subscriber | 1-2 | Business hours only |
| Active customer | 1-2 | Business hours preferred |
| Lapsed customer (win-back) | 1 | Business hours only |
| Post-purchase (utility) | As needed | Any time relevant |