WhatsApp It's an instant messaging platform that's essential for modern communication, both personal and professional. Given its versatility and widespread use, users often need to manage their interactions, whether to preserve privacy or avoid unwanted communications. Therefore, it's essential to know how to use it. How to block and unblock contacts and accounts on WhatsApp, as well as understanding the implications of these actions and the exact steps to execute them in different cases.
There are two main types of blocks in WhatsApp: contact lock (to restrict communication with certain numbers) and the account lockout, which occurs when WhatsApp restricts a user's access to the platform for violating its policies. Throughout this extensive tutorial, we'll guide you step-by-step through each process, covering both Android and iPhone, as well as the chat lock feature and other advanced privacy aspects.
Why is it important to know how to block and unblock on WhatsApp?
Understand how Block and unblock on WhatsApp It's essential for controlling your privacy and securely managing your interactions. Occasionally, you may receive messages from unknown numbers, unsolicited advertising, or even harassment. Knowing how to properly use blocking features protects you from unwanted contacts and keeps your experience safe and free from intruders.
Additionally, unblocking allows you to easily reverse your decision if you ever change your mind or make a mistake. WhatsApp offers tools to easily manage your list of blocked contacts at any time.
Common reasons for blocking and why WhatsApp may block your account
There are many circumstances in which users decide block a contact on whatsapp: annoying messages, spam, offensive content, personal issues, or even the need to temporarily distance yourself from certain people. On the other hand, WhatsApp may block your account as a disciplinary measure if you don't comply with its user policies.
- Using unofficial applications like GBWhatsApp or WhatsApp Plus.
- Suspicious activity such as message automation or mass data extraction.
- Sending spam or mass messages Not allowed.
- recurring reports by other users.
- Publication of fake news, illegal or malicious content (malware, phishing).
- Prolonged inactivity or use of spy tools.
Temporary or permanent account blocking is a serious measure, and if you are affected, it's important to know how to recover your account, as we'll see later.
Guide to blocking and unblocking contacts on WhatsApp
WhatsApp simplifies the process for both blocking and unblocking contacts. The process is very similar on Android and iOS, although the menu names may vary slightly.
How to block a contact on WhatsApp
Blocking contacts prevents that person from sending you messages, calling you on WhatsApp, or viewing information such as your last seen, statuses, and profile picture. You have several ways to do this:
- Through privacy settings:
- Open WhatsApp and tap the three dots icon (Menu ) in the upper right corner (Android), or go to Configuration on iPhone.
- Choose Settings & AFTER Privacy .
- Sign in Blocked contacts and click on the add icon (+).
- Select the contact you want to block from the list.
- From the contact chat:
- Open the conversation with the contact you want to block.
- Tap the contact name at the top.
- Scroll to the end and choose the option Block.
- On Android, you can tap on “More” and then on Block o block and report.
- For unknown contacts: If you receive a message from an unknown number, WhatsApp will directly show you the option to block o reportar that number from the same chat window.
What happens when you block someone?
- Contact will not be able to send you messages or call you through WhatsApp.
- He won't be able to see your profile picture, information, last online time no status updates.
- Messages sent while blocked will not be delivered even if you unblock it later.
- You won't be notified directly that you've been blocked, although there are signs such as your profile picture disappearing or the inability to send you messages.
There's currently no option to temporarily block someone; you can block and unblock them at any time.
How to unblock a contact on WhatsApp
If you change your mind, you can unblock a contact easily and quickly. Several methods are available:
- From the blocked contacts list:
- Accede to Menu > Settings > Privacy > Blocked Contacts.
- Long press on the contact and select To unlock.
- From the contact chat:
- If you keep the chat, swipe to the last message and tap To unlock.
- Direct method (iPhone): Go to Settings > Account > Privacy > Blocked Contacts and remove from the list whoever you want to unblock.
Considerations after unlocking:
- Messages, calls, and updates sent during the blocking period cannot be recovered.
- You'll be able to communicate normally with that contact again, but both of you will lose the information exchanged during the block, if it wasn't previously stored.
How to know if you have been blocked on WhatsApp
WhatsApp protects the privacy of users, so does not notify when you are blockedHowever, there are clear signs to suggest this:
- Don't you see the profile picture, last connection or status.
- Your messages appear with just one “tick” (message sent, but not delivered).
- You cannot make voice or video calls.
- You don't see their status updates.
None of these signs are absolutely conclusive on their own, but if they all appear, it's very likely that you're blocked.
How to lock or unlock individual chats with a password or biometrics?
WhatsApp has been incorporating the option for some time now block specific chats using a password, fingerprint, or Face ID, which offers an extra layer of privacy. You can check the WhatsApp tricks guides for more details on advanced security features.
Steps to activate chat blocking on WhatsApp
- Enter the information for the chat you want to protect.
- Select option Chat blocking.
- Active Lock this chat with fingerprint (or Face ID on iPhone).
- To access, you must authenticate with your biometric method or password.
Locked chats are stored in the "Locked Chats" folder. No one accessing your phone will be able to see their contents unless they have your authentication method. You can also check our Guide to recovering chats on WhatsApp.
How to unlock a protected chat
- Access the information section of the blocked chat.
- Choose Chat blocking and disable the respective option. Confirm your fingerprint, Face ID, or code.
The chat will again be visible in the general conversation list and will no longer require additional authentication. For advanced management, you can also consult All about WhatsApp status features.
Advanced blocking and privacy features on WhatsApp
In addition to traditional blocking, WhatsApp offers other contact and privacy management options:
- Mute notifications: If you don't want to block a contact but want to avoid their notifications, you can mute them from WhatsApp privacy optionsThis way, you won't be bothered by their messages without having to resort to the extreme step of blocking them.
- Report contacts: If you receive spam, threats, or illegal content, you can report the contact to the WhatsApp team. When reporting, you can choose to block and send recent conversations for review. the official page about reporting on WhatsApp.
- Block groups: If it's a group that bothers you, you can leave it, and if you want to avoid being added again, configure who can add you to groups from the WhatsApp groups guide.
Remember that none of these actions are directly reported to the affected party, thus maintaining the confidentiality and discretion of your management.
Causes and solutions for WhatsApp account blocking
El WhatsApp account blocking This usually results from a failure to comply with their terms of use. If your account has been restricted, we recommend the following steps:
- Contact WhatsApp support explaining your case.
- Request a review from Settings > Account > Request Block Review.
- You can access Help within the app for more support options.
- Wait for the official response: review time can vary from a few days to several weeks.
- Avoid installing unofficial applications or prohibited practices to prevent future penalties.
In some situations, the account is reinstated without warning after review. In other cases, the suspension may be irreversible if serious violations have been committed.
Tips before blocking or unblocking contacts
Before blocking someone, it may be advisable to make a backup of your chats To prevent data loss, WhatsApp allows you to easily back up your conversations to Google Drive (Android) or iCloud (iPhone) from your settings.
- Go to Settings> Chats> Backup and click on “Save”.
- This way, you'll keep the messages and files you shared before deleting or blocking a contact.
It's worth noting that once you block a contact, messages sent by that person during the blocking period won't be displayed if you unblock them later.
Frequently asked questions about blocking and unblocking on WhatsApp
- Can I block or unblock a contact without them knowing?
Yes, WhatsApp doesn't notify users when they're blocked or unblocked. However, they can deduce this from the inability to send you messages or view your information. - Can I re-unblock someone and reset all their information?
Unlocking only enables future communication. Messages or calls missed during the lock period cannot be recovered. - Can I block only messages and still receive calls?
No, the block is complete: it prevents messages, calls, and status updates. - Is blocking private chats with a fingerprint or Face ID reversible?
Yes, you can turn protection on or off at any time from your chat information. - What happens to groups if I block a contact?
Both of you can still participate in shared groups, but direct messages will be blocked.
Master the tools of blocking and unblocking on WhatsApp It's key to managing your privacy and protecting your experience, whether for security, convenience, or discretion. The platform is constantly evolving, so staying informed will allow you to effectively control your digital communications. Don't hesitate to share this tutorial with anyone who needs it and remember to always consult official sources or our section. guides for WhatsApp to keep you up to date with the latest app developments.
