Using the MultiWhatsapp plugin enables automating communication with customers over WhatsApp from your website forms and workflows. However, errors can sometimes occur in the delivery process to recipients. Being aware of the most common errors and troubleshooting steps allows you to smoothly handle issues and ensure good customer experience.
Invalid Message Recipient
This is one of the top errors that can arise with automated WhatsApp messaging. The core trigger is that the recipient is considered an invalid user by WhatsApp at the time of sending. Some key details:
Causes
- The provided phone number is not tied to an active WhatsApp account. This can simply happen due to a typo or outdated number.
- The recipient has not accepted the latest WhatsApp Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. Previous acceptances get expired.
- The WhatsApp client on the recipient’s phone is outdated and unsupported. This causes compatibility issues.
Impacts
- The automated message remains stuck in a pending state until manually canceled.
- No retry mechanisms exist for such an error within MultiWhatsapp.
- Recipients never receive the message leading to confusion.
Resolutions
- Validate recipient phone number entered matches active WhatsApp before submitting form.
- Provide link for latest Terms of Service acceptance: https://wa.me/tos/20210210
- Advise recipients upgrade WhatsApp if on unsupported versions.
Best Practices
- Show customized error message to inform customers clearly if issues faced.
- Guide users to troubleshoot issues like updating WhatsApp on old phones.
With some prevention and having an error handling process, the invalid recipient error can be effectively managed for seamless messaging.
