WhatsApp users could be hit with a fine for sending messages that may lead to pricey bills or even legal damages.
The messaging app's user base - the biggest of its kind with around two billion users - has been tipped off to be careful about the types of messages they send. Users could be liable to copyright infringement, warned mint.com.
The news business publication says people should avoid sharing copyrighted content, reported the Liverpool Echo. If its original creator found out, they could file a complaint, meaning the person who shared it could be forced to pay damages.
Similarly, the sharing of adult content on WhatsApp can result in legal consequences, if any member of the group chat were to complain about it.
And your WhatsApp account could even be banned if you send too many messages. WhatsApp warns users must not send "bulk messages" - when a person or organisation sends a large number of the same message to many phones.
It is often used by companies trying to advertise a product, or even scammers. However, it can also be used by people trying to inform a large group of people of something, for example, a boss trying to get a message to their staff.
Other rule breaking that could see your WhatsApp account banned include impersonating other people and extracting personal information from others. Your account may also be suspended if people report your messages.
WhatsApp said it bans accounts "if we believe the account activity violates our Terms of Service". If your account is banned, you'll see the following message when trying to access WhatsApp: "Your phone number is banned from using WhatsApp. Contact support for help."
Its website says: "Please keep in mind, we might not issue a warning before banning your account. If you think your account was banned by mistake, please email us and we'll look into your case."
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