What Exactly Is WhatsApp Error 133016?
One Reddit User reported:
"I was trying to register one number on WhatsApp, with the message 'Registration or Deregistration failed because there were too many attempts for this phone number in a short period of time.' showed up. Why is it happening?”
Have you ever received same errors as "Account register rate limit exceeded", "Unable to register your phone number." when try the WhatsApp login? If so, you may stuck in WhatsApp Error 133016, this error typically happens while users trying to register a new account or log into an existing one, you're not alone. And it's easily to confirm with if you see there is an error number 133016. But what this error means?
According to the users' feedback above and the WhatsApp API error code support from Mata guide, this error means:
This phone number has been blocked due to excessive attempts to register, or cancel registrations within a short period, reaching the limit.
You submitted registration requests over 10 in the past 72 hours. In this case, WhatsApp will return error code 133016 and will ban registration for this number for the next 72 hours.
It's a security-related error triggered by WhatsApp's anti-spam and fraud detection systems, indicating that the platform has flagged your registration or login attempt as potentially suspicious.
Unlike temporary network glitches, Error 133016 is often tied to long-term account trust issues or repeated violations of WhatsApp’s terms of service. It primarily affects new account setups, though existing users may also see it if their device or network environment raises red flags. The key takeaway: WhatsApp’s system has doubts about the legitimacy of your activity, and it's blocking the process until you resolve the underlying issue.
Top 5 Causes of WhatsApp Error 133016
Below are the most common triggers based on user reports and WhatsApp's official documentation, let's break down the details.
1. Too Many Account Registration Attempts
Basically this is the most easily behaviour to face a 133016 error. If you've tried to create multiple WhatsApp accounts in a short time—whether for testing,business, or personal use—WhatsApp will interpret this as a common spam tactic like phone number abuse, and could result in a permanent lockout on device.
2. Reused Device or IP Address
WhatsApp tracks device identifiers like Android ID and IP addresses to prevent spam. If you're registering a new account on a device or network that previously hosted a banned or suspicious account, the platform may block the new attempt. This is especially common with shared devices where multiple users have registered accounts, you'd better to stay one account on one device.
3. Unstable or Suspicious Network Connections
Using VPNs, unstable proxies from suspicious carriers can bring the Error 133016. WhatsApp’s security algorithms flag these connections as high-risk, assuming it might be used for spoofing locations or hiding malicious activity. Even legitimate VPNs can cause issues if they’re linked to known spam networks.
4. Device or Account History of Violations
If the device you’re using previously had a WhatsApp account that was banned for spam, harassment, or violating community guidelines, the device itself may be blacklisted. Similarly, using a phone number that was tied to a banned account can lead to this error, as WhatsApp links numbers to account histories.
5. Geographical Restrictions
In some regions, WhatsApp faces regulatory challenges or high spam rates, leading to stricter verification processes. Users in these areas may encounter Error 133016 more frequently, especially if they're trying to register using a number from a different country or a virtual SIM card.
Possible Solutions to Fix WhatsApp Error 133016
Now that you know the likely causes, let's dive into actionable fixes. These methods range from basic troubleshooting to advanced workarounds, depending on the severity of the issue.
Solution 1: Try again after 72 hours
The safest way you can try is following the WhatsApp's guideline: wait for 72 hours and then try again, don't try to attempt before the period as this will reset your rolling 72‑hour window again. Also if you are continuing to try, this could result in a permanent flag as an abusive number.
Solution 2: Check your network connection before the limit exceed
Once you see the error happens, please check and ensure you're on a stable, trusted network. If you're using mobile data, switch to a private Wi-Fi network and try again. If you must use a VPN, opt for a reputable service with a clean track record, then try again.
Solution 3: Clear WhatsApp cache and data
If corrupted cache or data interfere with registration, here is how to fix it:
For Android:
1.Go to Settings > Apps > WhatsApp.
2.Tap Storage & cache.
3.Select Clear cache and Clear data.
4.Relaunch WhatsApp and try registering again.
For iOS:
1.Uninstall WhatsApp from your device.
2.Delete the app’s data by going to Settings > General > iPhone Storage > WhatsApp and tapping Delete App.
3.Reinstall WhatsApp from the App Store and attempt registration.
Solution 4: Use a new, unused device or clear environment
If your current device is flagged, the possible fix is to use a device that’s never had a banned WhatsApp account. If you don’t have a spare physical device, consider using a cloud phone—the online virtual device that simulate a real smartphone. Cloud phones like VMOSCloud provide isolated environments with unique device IDs and IP addresses, preventing cross-contamination from previous accounts. This is especially useful for business users needing to manage multiple accounts securely.
How to use a cloud phone for WhatsApp login:
1.Download and install VMOSCloud on your primary device.
2.Create a new virtual instance, each instance acts as a separate device.
3.Install WhatsApp in the virtual instance and register using a new phone number.
4.Ensure the cloud phone's IP is same as your phone number area, this helps avoid geographical restrictions.
By using a cloud phone, you bypass device-level bans and maintain account isolation, which is critical for building long-term account trust.
Solution 5: Check your phone number's history
If you’re using a recycled phone number, contact your carrier to confirm it’s fully released. WhatsApp may still associate the number with the old account, so you may need to wait 30-60 days for the number to be fully deregistered. Alternatively, use a new, unused number for registration.
Solution 5: Contact WhatsApp Support
If all else fails, reach out to WhatsApp’s support team. Include details like the error code (133016), the device and network you're using, and any recent changes (e.g., new SIM card). While response times can be slow, providing specific logs increases your chances of a resolution.
How to Prevent WhatsApp Error 133016 in the Future
Fixing the error is one thing, and preventing it from recurring is another. Here are best practices to maintain your WhatsApp account health:
1. Use dedicated device for each account
Avoid reusing devices or IPs for multiple accounts, especially if any of those accounts were banned. For business users, cloud phones or dedicated second-hand devices are cost-effective solutions to maintain isolation.
2. Limit sign up attempts
Don't create more than 1-2 accounts per device in a 24-hour window. WhatsApp’s systems track patterns, and bulk registration is a red flag for spam.
3. Build account trust gradually
New accounts need time to "prove" they’re legitimate. Start with basic activities: add a profile photo, complete your bio, and send a few messages to trusted contacts. Avoid mass messaging or adding hundreds of contacts immediately—this triggers spam alerts.
4. Monitor Network Health
Regularly check your IP address using tools like WhatIsMyIP to ensure it’s not listed on spam databases. If your IP is blacklisted, switch to a different network or contact your ISP to resolve the issue.
FAQ:
Q: Does Error 133016 mean my phone number is permanently banned?
Not really. The error usually flags the device or network, not the number itself. However, if the number was tied to a banned account, you may need to wait for WhatsApp to release it after 30-60 days.
Q: How long does it take for Error 133016 to go away on its own?
There’s no set timeline. It depends on the cause: if it’s a temporary network blip, it may resolve in hours. If it’s due to a flagged device, you’ll need to switch devices or use new phone number to bypass the block.