If you’re locked out of your WhatsApp account and see the message “You need the official WhatsApp to use this account,” don’t worry! Here’s how you can resolve this issue:
Why This Error Occurs:
The error typically appears when you’re using modded WhatsApp versions like GBWhatsApp, WhatsApp Plus, or if your phone is rooted or using a custom ROM. WhatsApp detects these unofficial versions or system modifications and prevents access for security reasons.
Even if you’re using the official WhatsApp app, issues like a rooted phone or previous use of modded apps can trigger this error.
How to Fix the ‘You Need the Official WhatsApp to Log In’ Error
1. Uninstall the Unofficial Version of WhatsApp
- If you’ve been using a modded WhatsApp app like GBWhatsApp or WhatsApp Plus, uninstall it immediately. WhatsApp will block access to accounts linked with these versions.
- After uninstalling, proceed with the next steps.
2. Install WhatsApp from the Official Store
- Download and install WhatsApp from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store to ensure you’re using the legitimate version.
3. Update Your Android OS
- Sometimes, the issue can arise due to outdated or corrupted system files. Check if there’s an available update for your phone’s operating system:
- Go to Settings > About Phone > Software Update.
- Install any pending updates to ensure your system files are up-to-date.
4. Register a New Phone Number
- If you still can’t log in, try creating a new WhatsApp account with a fresh phone number. Insert a new SIM card, create an account, then add your main number to the account via Settings > Accounts > Add Account.
5. Try the Reddit Trick
- Some users have reported success with this method:
- Uninstall WhatsApp.
- Reinstall it, but don’t open the app immediately.
- Turn off both WiFi and Mobile Data, then restart your phone.
- After restarting, turn on Mobile Data, but don’t turn on WiFi.
- Now, sign in to WhatsApp and enter the verification code. Once logged in, you can turn on WiFi.
- This trick works for some users, though it may not be a guaranteed fix.
6. Change Play Protect Settings
- Sometimes, Google Play Protect mistakenly flags official WhatsApp as a modded version. You can tweak the Play Protect settings:
- Open Google Play Store.
- Tap the profile picture, then go to Play Protect.
- Tap the settings icon at the top right.
- Turn off Scan apps with Play Protect and Improve harmful app detection.
- After changing these settings, uninstall WhatsApp, then reinstall it from the official store.
7. Contact WhatsApp Support
- If none of the above steps work, you can contact WhatsApp Support:
- Visit the WhatsApp Support page.
- Fill in your details, including the phone number and a description of the issue.
- Mention that you’ve already tried all troubleshooting steps.
Here’s a sample message template you can send:
Subject: Request to Fix the WhatsApp Problem
Message:
Dear WhatsApp Support Team,
My name is XYZ, and my WhatsApp number is XYZ. Recently, I’ve been facing issues where I’m getting the error “You need the official WhatsApp to use this account,” despite using the official app. I’ve already tried all possible solutions, including uninstalling modded apps, updating my OS, and reinstalling WhatsApp. Kindly assist me in resolving this issue.
Thank you.