WhatsApp Business Commerce Policy: Full Prohibited List & Compliance Guide (2026)
WhatsApp Business Commerce Policy Violations occur when merchants try to sell banned items. This includes digital subscriptions, adult goods, alcohol, or real cash. Makers of safety gear can stay. Direct sales are blocked. To see alerts, use the account_update webhook.
Getting a policy ban is scary. It stops your sales fast. We know this panic well. In our recent checks, we found a key rule. Selling thermometers directly is banned. But a manufacturer who does not sell there is safe. This rule saves accounts. You must know the facts.
What Are WhatsApp Business Commerce Policy Violations?
WhatsApp Business Commerce Policy Violations are official flags on your account. They happen when you break rules. The system is strict. It tracks the WhatsApp Business Platform closely.
If you slip up, the system acts. It sends a ping. This comes via the account_update webhook. You must watch these. The banned list changes often. Stay sharp.
The "Digital & Virtual" Ban (Common Pitfalls)
Selling digital services on WhatsApp is not allowed. You cannot sell downloads. This is a common error. The app blocks subscription sales too.
Do not list these high-risk items. Avoid digital subscriptions like TV streaming. Skip game accounts and PDF files. Virtual currencies are also banned. Keep it physical.
To stay safe, you must use the platform correctly from the start. Our guide on How to Send Bulk Messages on WhatsApp the Official Way? explains the right methods to reach customers without triggering policy flags.
Prohibited Physical Goods (Detailed List)
You must know what physical goods are banned. The list is clear. We sorted the WhatsApp Business prohibited products list below.
| Category | Allowed (with conditions) | Strictly Prohibited (Banned) |
|---|---|---|
| Alcohol | None. | Wine, beer, kits, and branded glasses. |
| Animals | Vet, grooming, or boarding services. | Live animals, ivory, fur, or adoption. |
| Supplements | Safe items (discretionary). | Unsafe items like steroids or Ephedra. |
| Tobacco | None. | Cigarettes, e-cigs, hookahs, and apparel. |
| Body Parts | None. | Blood, wigs, organs, or body fluids. |
Healthcare and Weapons: The Manufacturer Exception
This part is tricky. You cannot sell guns or medical devices directly. That is a violation. But manufacturers have a way out.
If you do not sell, you are fine. You can show safety training. This helps legal weapon makers. It works for healthcare too. You can exist there. Just do not transact.
Understanding "Misleading" and "Scam" Violations
WhatsApp hates scams. They block bad business models fast. Multi-level marketing (MLM) is banned. Penny auctions are out too.
Watch out for diet pills. If it makes people feel bad, it gets flagged. Do not push customers hard. No "get rich" claims. This keeps users safe.
How to Monitor Violations via API
You need live data. The rules change a lot. To stay safe, use code. Subscribe to account_update webhooks.
This tool sends alerts. It tells you when a violation happens. This helps you fix it. It keeps your WhatsApp API enforcement clean.
Conclusion
Follow the rules to win. Keep your catalog clean. Check your items today. Do not risk a ban. If you need help with setup, ask us. We guide you through it. Contact WUSeller for Policy Support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did WhatsApp reject my digital product catalog?
WhatsApp rejected it because digital items are banned. The policy stops you from selling downloadable content. You cannot sell digital subscriptions or accounts. This includes PDF files, music, and games.
Can I sell vapes on WhatsApp Business API?
No, you cannot sell vapes. The Tobacco policy bans all smoke items. This covers e-cigarettes and rolling papers. Even shirts with tobacco logos are not allowed.
Is dropshipping allowed under WhatsApp commerce policy?
Dropshipping is allowed if it is honest. But Multi-level marketing (MLM) is banned. If your store looks like a scam, it will fail. Avoid "get rich quick" promises.
How to check WhatsApp policy violations?
To check flags, use the account_update webhook. This API tool sends live alerts. It tells you when a policy violation hits your account. This is the fastest way to know.
What is the list of banned items on WhatsApp Business 2025?
The banned list includes alcohol and animals. It also bans digital services and weapons. Unsafe supplements and fake cash are also out. Check the full list often.