My number was restricted

If WhatsApp shows something like “Your account is restricted right now”, WhatsApp has temporarily limited your number. In most cases:

• You can still reply in existing chats.
• You cannot start new chats for a while.
• The restriction is lifted automatically after some time.

Why this happens #

WhatsApp restricts numbers when it detects sending that looks automated. The usual triggers are:

• Messages sent too fast, with little or no delay.
• Too many new chats in a short time, especially to unsaved contacts.
• Messages that look copy-pasted, with no personalization.

Most of the time this comes down to settings and pace. The safest approach is to follow the best practice guidelines.

What I can and cannot do #

I am the developer of SendCommander, but I do not work at WhatsApp or Meta, and I have no access to their systems. I cannot lift a restriction from my side.

What to do now #

You have two options:

1. Wait and let WhatsApp lift the restriction automatically.
2. Contact WhatsApp directly from the app: Settings, Help, Contact Us.

If you try again, go slow #

Since the number was already flagged, start carefully. A safe starting point:

• No more than 100 messages per day.
• A delay of 20 to 30 seconds between messages.
• An additional small random pause, for example 5 to 10 seconds.
• Send to saved contacts where possible.
• Ask recipients to save your number before you message them.
• Encourage a quick reply like “OK” or “Thanks”, so WhatsApp sees a two-way conversation.
• Personalize with placeholders, so each message looks typed by a human.

Alternative: The official WhatsApp business API #

Some users ask about the official WhatsApp Business API. It can be more stable at higher volume, but it has stricter rules and less flexibility. One provider is Twilio.

Key limitations to know:

• Approval required. You need a WhatsApp Business account and provider approval.
• 24-hour window. After a person messages you, you usually have 24 hours to reply with normal messages. After that, you typically must use message templates.
• Message templates. Messages that start a conversation, or fall outside the 24-hour window, usually need pre-approved templates.
• Costs. Pricing is per message and depends on the country and message type.

In short #

SendCommander can still work fine after a restriction, but you need to slow down and send in a way that looks human. Stay patient and conservative for a few days and the risk of another restriction drops a lot. Speed things up again and WhatsApp will usually restrict the number again.