WhatsApp is one of the apps we can’t live without. We use it to stay connected with friends and family. Not just for personal use, most people also use it to connect with their professional contacts. So, we cannot afford to lose access to WhatsApp. If you are seeing the message “You Need the Official WhatsApp to Use This Account” when opening WhatsApp, it means the app you are using is not the original version from WhatsApp. This is a security measure to protect your account and data.
This error usually appears if you are using a modified or unofficial version of WhatsApp, such as GBWhatsApp, WhatsApp Plus, FMWhatsApp, or any other third-party build. These apps may offer extra features, but they are not safe and are not supported by WhatsApp.
Here is how you can fix it.
1. Uninstall the Unofficial WhatsApp App
I have seen a few people using GB WhatsApp to get features that aren’t available in the official version of WhatsApp. But using any kind of modded version of WhatsApp is illegal and puts your account at risk. GB WhatsApp was reportedly behind the large-scale Trojan attack. So, it also puts your device and data at risk. So, remove the unofficial version of the app if you are using any.
First, you need to remove the modified version from your phone.
- Go to your phone’s Settings.
- Open Apps or App Manager.
- Find the unofficial WhatsApp app and tap Uninstall.
This is important because as long as the unofficial app is on your device, you will keep getting the same error.
Read: How to Tell If You Have Been Blocked on WhatsApp
2. Download the Official WhatsApp
Now install the original WhatsApp directly from an official source.
- For Android: Go to Google Play Store and search for “WhatsApp Messenger.”
- For iPhone: Go to Apple App Store and search for “WhatsApp Messenger.”
- You can also download it from the official website: https://www.whatsapp.com/download
Make sure you are downloading it from the correct source to avoid fake or unsafe versions. You can also download it from trusted APK download websites. But the Play Store on Android and the App Store on iOS are the recommended.
3. Restore Your Chat Backup
If you were using an unofficial version, your chats might not be saved to Google Drive or iCloud. However, if you had the option enabled, you can restore them.
- Open the official WhatsApp.
- Verify your phone number.
- If a backup is found, WhatsApp will ask you to restore it. Tap Restore.
If no backup is found, your old chats may be lost. This is one of the risks of using unofficial apps. So, always use the official version of WhatsApp.
4. Make Changes to the Play Protect Settings (Android Only)
Sometimes Google Play’s security features can cause WhatsApp to think you are using an unofficial app, even if you are not.
You can adjust Play Protect settings to see if it helps.
- Open Google Play Store.
- Tap your profile picture at the top right.
- Select Play Protect.
- Tap the Settings gear icon at the top right.
- Turn off Scan apps with Play Protect and Improve harmful app detection.
- After making these changes, uninstall WhatsApp and install it again from the Play Store.
Read: Best Funny WhatsApp Stickers
5. Avoid Using Unofficial Versions in the Future
WhatsApp is strict about modified versions. Even if they seem safe, they can put your account at risk. You may even face a temporary or permanent ban. The safest option is to always use the official app.
6. If You Still See the Error
If the error appears even after installing the official WhatsApp, make sure the unofficial app is fully removed. You can also try restarting your phone. Clear any remaining app data related to the old version. On Android, go to Settings > Storage > WhatsApp > Clear Data (only do this before logging in). Reinstall WhatsApp from the official source again.
7. Contact WhatsApp Support
If nothing works, contact WhatsApp directly.
- Open the WhatsApp Contact Form: https://www.whatsapp.com/contact
- Enter your phone number with the correct country code.
- Provide your email address.
- Select how you use WhatsApp (Messenger or Business).
- In the message box, explain the problem and mention what you have already tried.
Read: How to Generate AI Images on WhatsApp
Final Words
The message “You Need the Official WhatsApp to Use This Account” is WhatsApp’s way of telling you to switch back to the official app. Using the real version is the only way to keep your account safe, avoid bans, and make sure all features work properly.
