WhatsApp is currently issuing warnings and urging its users to use WhatsApp official app instead of its clones such as GB WhatsApp or WhatsApp Plus. As we all know, Facebook-owned messaging app has more than a billion users and it is not easy to keep them hooked to this app. WhatsApp has issued a strict warning saying that those who are using WhatsApp’s clone are at safety hazards as the company cannot validate security practices.
According to reports, WhatsApp has already started banning users and have been temporarily banned a few from using most famous chatting app. The company has also warned saying that their entire chat history can be deleted. The company has also shared a detailed FAQ (guide) page on how to switch their accounts from un-official to official WhatsApp app and restore chat.
WhatsApp has stated that those who are using the clone of its app their accounts will be temporarily banned. If users account is blocked, they are advised to download the official version of WhatsApp in order to resume the app. Users should also save their chat history before they download the official WhatsApp app. This is in case they are using anything other than WhatsApp Plus or GB WhatsApp.
“WhatsApp cares deeply about the safety of our users. To protect the privacy and security of their account, we strongly recommend users only download WhatsApp from official app stores or from our website. We are continuing to step up our enforcement against imposter WhatsApp services to help curb abuse and keep WhatsApp users safe,” WhatsApp spokesperson told Indian Express.
WhatsApp has also shared a complete FAQ page on how to migrate from unofficial to official WhatsApp app and restore chats.
Here’s how to switch to the official WhatsApp app step by step
For GB WhatsApp users:
Step 1: To restore old chats, users should back up chat history on unofficial apps once the temporary ban is lifted. To do so, go to WhatsApp > Options > Chats > Backup chats.
Step 2: Go to device settings, then storage, select files and find GB WhatsApp folder.
Step 3: Rename the select folder to “WhatsApp” by long pressing the icon.
Step 4: Download official WhatsApp from Google Play Store.
Step 5: Verify phone number with OTP and select Restore when prompted to backup chats.
Step 6: WhatsApp will retrieve your old data from the unofficial app.
For WhatsApp Plus users:
Step 1: Download and install official WhatsApp from Google Play Store.
Step 2: Verify your phone number and restore all chats seamlessly.
Make sure users delete the unofficial apps or APKs from the phone in order to prevent any issues.