WhatsApp Blocking Wave Resumes: More Israelis Report Restricted Access
In the last two weeks, many Israelis have reported that their WhatsApp accounts were blocked without a clear reason, and the wave of blocks has resumed in recent hours. A 'Globes' investigation suggests the issue is isolated to Israel. The Israel Internet Association urges the public to back up data and utilize alternative messaging applications.
In the last two weeks, many Israelis have reported that their WhatsApp accounts were blocked for no clear reason. While reports last week indicated several dozen cases, 'Globes' has learned that the wave of blocks has resumed in the last few hours, with documented cases rising to at least 200. These users are currently unable to access their accounts.
At this time, the cause of the malfunctions remains unclear. Moreover, a 'Globes' investigation indicates that this is not a global issue, but one isolated to Israel, suggesting that specific elements of the Hebrew language or the Israeli interface may be triggering the system.
Estimates suggest a glitch in the algorithm that identifies accounts reaching out to unsaved numbers or unidentified users, incorrectly classifying them as bots or spammers.
The Israel Internet Association, which issued warnings last week, reports that the wave of blocks is ongoing. The association continues to receive numerous inquiries on its safe internet hotline, noting that some users have been blocked, reinstated, and subsequently blocked again.
The Israel Internet Association calls on the public to:
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Back up important information in WhatsApp immediately.
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Use other applications in parallel to diversify risks and preserve photos and important content from conversations.
Furthermore, the association warns users not to be tempted by paid offers from third parties claiming to help remove blocks. The official procedure is to submit a formal appeal through Meta’s internal mechanisms in response to the block notification.
WhatsApp responded to the situation:
"We are constantly working to stay ahead of users who try to abuse our platform, and we work to block their accounts to help keep users safe. Sometimes there is a mistake in the process, and when that happens, we work to fix the situation as quickly as possible, to allow people to return to using WhatsApp."
