Wondering how to block WhatsApp groups? Messages or its members? Rest assured, we’ve got you covered. Being added to unwanted WhatsApp groups you don’t want to be a part of can be quite annoying.
While you can’t fully block a WhatsApp group like you can a member, there are several ways to mute, customize, or even leave groups. By doing this, you will not receive constant notifications or messages. Because of this blocking feature, you can be at peace with annoying groups or members. Let’s get you started!
Can You Fully Block a Group on WhatsApp?
WhatsApp doesn’t allow you to completely block an entire group chat the same way you can block individual users from contacting you.
However, there are various options you can use to mute group notifications, exit groups you no longer want to be in, stop specific members from messaging you, and control who can add you to groups in the first place.
Also Read: How To Get Green Tick On WhatsApp For Free In 4 Easy Steps
How to Block a WhatsApp Group (Limit Notifications from Unwanted Groups)
You cannot completely block a WhatsApp group, but what you can do is limit the notifications you receive from unwanted groups. You have a couple of options on how to do that:
Method 1: Mute Notifications from a Group
Muting a group is the easiest way to stay in the group, but avoid getting notified every time a new message comes in.
When you mute a group chat:
- You won’t receive sound/vibration alerts for new messages.
- The group will still appear in your chats list.
- You can view new messages whenever you open the chat.
- Other group members won’t know you’ve muted notifications.
- Muting doesn’t affect calls from group members.
To mute a group on WhatsApp:
Step 1: Open WhatsApp and tap the group chat you want to mute in your chat list.
Step 2: At the very top of the screen, tap the group name.
Step 3: Tap Mute.
Step 4: Select a duration of 8 hours, one week, or Always.
Step 5: The group chat will be muted for the specified time. To unmute the group, repeat steps 1 and 2 above and tap Unmute.
Method 2: Leave the Group Completely
If you want to remove yourself from a group, you can exit the group chat altogether.
However, be aware:
- Group admins will be notified when you leave.
- Admins can re-add you unless you block them.
- You’ll lose access to view any future messages.
To leave a group on WhatsApp:
Step 1: Open WhatsApp and tap on the group chat you want to leave.
Step 2: At the top of the screen, tap on the group name.
Step 3: Scroll to the very bottom of the screen and tap Exit Group.
Step 4: You’ll be asked if you’re sure you want to leave the group and given the option to mute the group instead. If you still want to leave, tap Exit Group.
Step 5: You are now no longer a member of that group.
Also Read: What Is ‘Use High Priority Notification’ In WhatsApp?
Prevent Getting Re-Added To A Group
If you want to block a WhatsApp group or simply exit it, you can do it by the steps mentioned above, but sometimes you get re-added back into the group. To prevent this from happening, simply follow these methods and steps below:
Method 1: Block the Group Admins
When you voluntarily leave a group, the admins are notified. They may try to add you back into the group if you don’t request them not to. To prevent being re-added, you can block the admins of the group you are leaving. This stops them from being able to add you back into the group again.
Important: You must block the admins before exiting the group, or else they may add you back before you have a chance to block them.
To block group admins on WhatsApp:
Step 1: Open WhatsApp and tap on the group chat in your chat list.
Step 2: At the very top of the screen, tap the name of the group.
Step 3: Scroll down to Participants and tap the name of an Admin.
Step 4: Scroll to the very bottom of the screen and tap Block Contact. This will show either their name or their number.
Step 5: Tap Block to confirm your decision.
Repeat for any other admins of the group that you wish to block. If you want to stop anyone other than your contacts from adding you to groups, you can control who can add you to WhatsApp groups in the settings.
Method 2: Limit Who Can Add You to Groups
By default, anyone who has your phone number saved in their contacts can add you to a WhatsApp group. You can customize this setting only to allow your contacts, or nobody, to add you to group chats without your approval.
Group admins can still invite you to join a group if restricted but won’t add you directly without permission.
To change your group settings in WhatsApp:
Step 1: Open WhatsApp Settings.
Step 2: Tap Account > Privacy > Groups.
Step 3: Choose the option Everyone, My Contacts, or My Contacts Except.
Step 4: Tap ‘OK.‘
Customize Notifications from Specific Group Members
If there are certain members of a WhatsApp group that annoy you, there are ways to silence them.
1. Mute Notifications from Members
You can mute specific group participants, which will disable notifications from messages they send in the group. Their messages will still be visible but won’t trigger sound/vibration alerts. To mute a group member’s notifications:
Step 1: Open the group and tap the member’s name or number.
Step 2: Tap Mute.
Step 3: Choose one week, 8 hours, or Always mute.
Also Read: How To Unban Whatsapp Number Quickly (Easy & Simple Steps)
2. Block Members from Messaging You
If you want to go beyond muting and prevent a group member from contacting you entirely, you can block them.
- Blocked members can’t send you messages or call you.
- They will be removed from your contacts.
To block a group member on WhatsApp:
Step 1: Open the group and tap the member’s name or number.
Step 2: Scroll down and tap Block Contact.
Step 3: Confirm by tapping Block.
Other Ways to Manage Group Notifications
There are several other features you can use to customize WhatsApp groups:
- Set custom notifications for specific groups.
- Enable private replies in group chats to private message someone within the group.
- Turn off read receipts in groups under Privacy Settings.
Should You Leave a WhatsApp Group?
Before deciding to exit a WhatsApp group, consider if you still value connections with some members of the group or get used to it. Also, assess if the group no longer holds practical value vs being disruptive.
Leaving groups too hastily could hurt relationships. However, don’t stay in groups that consistently annoy you. Life is too short to let WhatsApp groups drive you crazy!
Conclusion
You have full control over managing disruptive WhatsApp groups. While blocking isn’t an option, muting, leaving, and limiting notifications are effective alternatives. Evaluate why you want to leave and take appropriate action. WhatsApp’s settings give you flexibility to optimize groups for your needs.