Popular messaging app WhatsApp took significant action against user misconduct, banning approximately 84 lakh accounts across the country over the past month. This measure, implemented by the platform’s parent company Meta, aimed to curb the misuse of its services for scams and fraudulent activities.

According to Meta’s transparency report, the decision to ban these accounts was made after a surge in user complaints regarding suspicious activities. The bans were executed between August 1 and August 31, with 16.6 lakh accounts shut down immediately based on proactive monitoring, while the remainder were banned following investigations.

WhatsApp received 10,707 complaints in August, with only 93 leading to immediate action, the report highlighted. These complaints predominantly involved scams and exploitation, prompting the company to enhance its surveillance efforts.

WhatsApp Accounts can be banned for several reasons, including:

• Sending bulk messages or spam.
• Engaging in fraud or disseminating misinformation.
• Violating law or participating in suspicious activities.

This strict enforcement reflects WhatsApp’s commitment to user safety and compliance with the Information Technology Act.