Your WhatsApp isn't working usually due to a bad internet connection, an outdated app/phone, or a full phone storage, but common fixes include restarting your phone, checking Wi-Fi/data, clearing the app's cache, or reinstalling it; first check if WhatsApp is down, then try simple resets like turning data on/off or restarting the device.
Bad news for millions of users: these cell phones will no longer be able to use WhatsApp from January 1, 2026. Older iPhones and Android devices will stop running the messaging app in 2026, so back up your chats now.
Check your connection
Make sure you have a good internet connection. Try switching between Wi-Fi and mobile internet. If you have no Wi-Fi or a poor mobile internet connection, try moving to a different location. Read more about problems connecting to WhatsApp.
WhatsApp discontinues service for devices running iOS 15 or Android 5.0 and below. WhatsApp will stop functioning on a number of older smartphones as part of its routine software update cycle beginning Sunday, June 1, 2025. The update, initially expected on May 5, was delayed to allow users more time to prepare.
WhatsApp and its parent company Meta have not informed the Indian government of any plans to shut down their services in the country, according to Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. The Minister made this clear in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha.
Here's the full list of Android phones that have lost access:
We ban accounts if we believe the account activity violates our Terms of Service, for example if it involves spam, scams or if it puts WhatsApp users' safety at risk.
Here are eight signs your account may already be compromised.
WhatsApp is pulling the plug on older smartphones starting June 1, 2025. If you're still rocking a vintage iPhone 5s or an OG Moto G, consider this your wake-up call.
The change aims to improve security and reduce risks from outdated devices. WhatsApp has officially ceased support for older iPhone models starting 5 May 2025. Devices running iOS versions earlier than 15.1, including the iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus, will no longer be able to use the messaging platform.
For Android users, models such as the Samsung Galaxy S4, Galaxy Note 3, Sony Xperia Z1, LG G2, Huawei Ascend P6, Moto G (1st Gen), and HTC One X will lose support. Any phone running Android 5.0 or earlier is affected.
WhatsApp is up
StatusGator reports that WhatsApp is currently operational. There have been 34 user-submitted reports of outages in the past 24 hours.
Meta, the company that owns Facebook, also owns Instagram and WhatsApp, two other extremely popular platforms. The company has made many acquisitions over its history, most of which have been rolled into the company.
Steps to try
Try updating your phone's operating system. Make sure you're connected to the internet. Restart your device. Make sure you've completed the verification process for your phone number.
WhatsApp will end support for phones running Android 5.1 or iOS 11 and older starting December 1, 2025. The change is to maintain security and enable new features. Check if your device is affected.
Currently, we provide support for and recommend using the following devices: Android running OS 5.0 and newer. iPhone running iOS 15.1 and newer.
On December 2nd, 2024, WhatsApp warned users that any iPhone that hadn't been updated to iOS 15.1 – or beyond – by the 5th of May 2025, would lose all access to calls and messages that were stored on your WhatsApp. This would also include sending or receiving messages.
Currently, WhatsApp supports iPhones that use iOS 12 and above. That's anything from the iPhone 5s and up, which was released in 2013. However, Meta is set to change things slightly from May 5 with it saying that WhatsApp will soon only support iPhones that have iOS 15.1 installed.
Even though WhatsApp is often considered one of the most secure messaging apps, hackers can still target you and get access to your WhatsApp messages—they just have to infiltrate your phone with spyware or hack into your account. Here are four ways that someone can spy on WhatsApp messages: Spy apps.
Start by deleting unknown apps, updating your software, and running a security scan. Change passwords to any affected accounts and turn on 2FA. If you believe your phone has been hacked, start by removing any suspicious apps, updating your phone, and getting access back to any hacked accounts.
It happens if one violates critical WhatsApp policies or deviates from the key 'terms of service' several times. Some common reasons behind a permanent WhatsApp account ban include sending illegal messages, bulk messaging through an unauthorized WhatsApp scheduling app and repeatedly getting blocked by multiple users.
Network Connectivity Problems
A weak or unstable internet connection is the most frequent cause of WhatsApp Errors. Whether you're on Wi-Fi or mobile data, a disrupted connection can lead to delays or complete failures in message delivery.