WhatsApp: How to disable the Android app
We show you how you can block your WhatsApp account after theft. You will also learn how the app can be deactivated in the Android operating system.
Block WhatsApp account: Here's how
If your smartphone has been stolen, you should make sure that nobody can use your WhatsApp account. We'll show you how to block your WhatsApp account.
- In such a case, you should first block your SIM card directly. Thus, the perpetrator with the stolen SIM card has no network and cannot re-verify your WhatsApp account.
- Your WhatsApp account can only be activated on one device at a time. So if you have a second SIM card with the same phone number, insert this card into another device. Now all you have to do is install and set up WhatsApp. Thus, the perpetrator with the stolen property no longer has access to your account.
- If you don't have a second SIM card, you can have your account blocked temporarily. Simply an email to in the subject line "Lost / Stolen: Please deactivate my account" and enter your cell phone number with country code ( example: +49 123 123456789).
- You can reactivate your account in the same way. However, this must be done within 30 days, otherwise it will be deleted completely.
Deactivate WhatsApp: You should be aware of this
Since version Android 4.0 it is possible to deactivate apps that are not used. However, this function is only limited to preinstalled programs. So you cannot deactivate WhatsApp, but have to completely uninstall the app.
- Open the "Settings" on your Android smartphone.
- Select the "Apps" button there.
- Go to "WhatsApp" in the apps list. If you cannot find the app directly, you can use the search function at the top of the screen (see step 1).
- Click the "Uninstall" button (see step 2) and confirm your selection with "OK" (see step 3).
- However, keep in mind that all data will be deleted from WhatsApp after deinstallation. We recommend that you back up all chats and media beforehand.
Alternatively, you can irrevocably delete your WhatsApp account, read more about this in our practical tip below.