WhatsApp Admits Mass Blocking Error, Begins Restoring User Chats

Meta has spoken out regarding a number of WhatsApp user accounts that could not be accessed, effectively blocked. According to the company, a system error occurred and it is in the process of restoring access to affected users. Previously, several WhatsApp users complained that their accounts were inaccessible. They reported the incident in a number of posts on various social media platforms. The affected accounts were said to be under review. Impacted users also posted screenshots showing their accounts were under review. In the notification received by users, WhatsApp stated that account activity and device information were being checked to ensure compliance with the platform’s terms of service. The company promised that the review results would be communicated within 24 hours. Meta did not detail the cause of the problem, including the reason why several accounts had to be reviewed. There was also no explanation regarding which regions’ users were affected by the system error. The company acknowledged the issue of accounts being inaccessible and is working to resolve it. Action has also been taken to restore the affected accounts. ‘We are always working to anticipate misuse of our services and block accounts to help keep other users safe,’ a Meta spokesperson said. ‘Sometimes we make mistakes and try to fix them as quickly as possible so people can get back to chatting. We have taken action to restore the affected accounts,’ the spokesperson added.