WhatsApp lately has become a favorite platform for businesses. It has become easy to send promotional messages like ticket confirmations, transaction updates and marketing campaigns. Businesses have shifted their focus from SMS to WhatsApp for the purpose as it is highly convenient. However, it sometime leads to a cluttered inbox for users and seek to address the issue. The government too is working to come up with strict regulations to reduce spamming. But before that, WhatsApp has a solution. It provides tools to help manage messages more effectively.
Do note that receiving a plethora of marketing messages can be frustrating for many. Thankfully, WhatsApp has features to allow users to control who can send them such business messages. Here are the steps to follow and to stop receiving unwanted messages from businesses:
1. Block the Business
The straightforward way is to block the business on WhatsApp. You will stop receiving the messages. Here is how to do it:
- Go to the chat with the business you want to block.
- Tap on the business name to open their profile.
- Scroll down and select the ‘Block’ option.
It is an effective solution and you will not again receive messages from a particular business. However, they can still view your profile and catalogue.
2. Report the Business
If you believe a business is violating the policy of WhatsApp, simply report about it on the platform itself. WhatsApp will identify and take necessary actions against it for misusing the platform. Follow below steps to do so:
- Go to the chat with the business you want to report.
- Click on the business name at the top of the chat.
- Scroll down and tap on the ‘Report’ option.
WhatsApp reviews the complaint and takes necessary actions. If the business is found violating the policies, the platform will take actions like warnings or banning the business from using the platform.
3. Continue the Conversation
If you find the messages from a business useful, you can choose to continue the conversation. The option is for those who want to receive the messages. To maintain ongoing communication:
- Respond to the messages if you wish to stay in touch.
4. Opt Out of Marketing Messages
Certain businesses offer “Opt out of marketing messages” button. It is embedded within the chat. The feature allows to decline further promotional messages. This means that there is no need to block the business entirely.
- Go to the chat with the business.
- Find and tap the button labeled ‘Opt out of marketing messages.’
Activating this option notifies the business to stop sending marketing messages. This is considered as a polite way to reduce message clutter.
When Opt Out Isn’t Available
Businesses might not provide an opt-out button. If this is the case, blocking the business is the only option left. Blocking means you too will not be unable to send messages to them.
Government and Platform Efforts
The Indian government is considering coming up with stricter regulations to combat spam. The measures are aimed to protect consumers from receiving unsolicited messages. The regulations are in development now. It may take time to materialize.
Verdict
Receiving unwanted messages from businesses on WhatsApp can be frustrating. There are more than one effective ways to manage the issue. It is like blocking, reporting or opting out of marketing messages. Users have the tools to take control. However, businesses always continue to find new ways to reach out. It is therefore important for users to stay informed. It is important to utilize the features.
By following the above steps, users can enjoy a more organized messaging experience. They can ensure to receive only relevant messages.
FAQ
1. How do I block a business on WhatsApp?
To block a business on WhatsApp:
- Open the chat with the business.
- Tap on the business name at the top of the chat.
- Scroll down and select ‘Block.’
Blocking business prevents from receiving messages. However, they still will be able to view your profile and catalog.
2. What happens when I report a business on WhatsApp?
WhatsApp reviews the report and take necessary actions against the business if identified to be violating the policies. The actions are like warnings to banning the business from using the platform.
3. Can I stop receiving promotional messages without blocking the business?
Yes, some businesses offer an “Opt out of marketing messages” option within the chat.
- Open the chat with the business.
- Look for the ‘Opt out of marketing messages’ button and tap on it.
The feature notifies the business that you don’t want to receive promotional messages anymore.
4. What should I do if the “Opt out of marketing messages” option is not available?
If the “Opt out of marketing messages” option is not available, you can block the business to stop receiving messages. However, even you can’t send messages to the business after it.
5. Will blocking a business remove all previous messages from chat history?
No, blocking a business will not remove the chat history. You can see all the past messages.
6. Can a business view my profile after I block it?
Yes, they can still view your profile and catalog.
7. What is the difference between blocking and reporting a business?
- Blocking prevents the business from sending you messages.
- Reporting alerts WhatsApp about the behavior of business and to take necessary actions against the business if they are found to be violating the policies.
8. How to know that a business has an “Opt out of marketing messages” option?
The “Opt out of marketing messages” button can be found within the chat interface of the business itself.
