WhatsApp is set to roll out a new anti-spam feature aimed at curbing excessive messaging and unwanted communication. The popular messaging app is testing a limit on how many messages users can send without receiving a reply. This move represents the company’s latest effort to counter spam, scams, and nuisance messages that have grown alongside the platform’s vast user base.
According to WhatsApp, the test introduces a cap on messages sent to recipients who do not respond. Both personal users and business accounts are included in the trial. Once a recipient replies, the previous messages from that sender are removed from the total monthly count. This ensures that normal conversations remain unaffected while deterring persistent, unwanted outreach.
Accounts nearing the messaging threshold will receive an in-app warning, prompting users to moderate their communication activity. The company stated that the vast majority of individuals are unlikely to reach this cap, as it primarily targets automated or high-frequency senders.
This initiative forms part of WhatsApp’s broader campaign to strengthen user privacy and improve platform integrity. The new restriction will initially launch in select countries before a possible global rollout, depending on test results and feedback.
Over the past year, WhatsApp has steadily implemented multiple anti-spam and anti-fraud tools. In 2024, the company allowed users to unsubscribe from marketing messages sent by businesses directly within the app. Earlier this year, WhatsApp also introduced notifications alerting users when someone not in their contact list adds them to a group. These measures are designed to increase transparency and give users more control over their interactions.
The Meta-owned platform continues to battle large-scale spam and scam operations. In the first half of 2025 alone, WhatsApp reported restricting over 6.8 million accounts linked to fraudulent activity and mass messaging. The new unanswered message limit aims to reduce such misuse while ensuring legitimate communication remains seamless.
Moreover, the feature could help small businesses maintain a better reputation by discouraging aggressive or repetitive messaging. It promotes responsible communication practices while balancing user convenience with necessary safeguards.
As spam and scam attempts evolve, WhatsApp’s anti-spam test marks a significant step in its ongoing efforts to protect user trust. By reducing message clutter and improving moderation, the platform aims to provide a safer, more efficient environment for over two billion global users.
