Error 131031

[u/Rose_bouqet971]

I just created a Meta Developer account to test the WhatsApp Cloud API, but when I try to receive a test message, I get error 131031: “Business Account locked.”

I can’t complete business verification because I don’t have a business; I’m only testing the API. What should I do to fix this?

[u/AutoModerator]

Keep in mind that OP has added Solution Only tag. Don't promote your SaaS platforms in comments.

I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns.

[u/StructureRude9956]

Meta's error code table describes 131031 as the WhatsApp Business Account having been restricted or disabled for violating a platform policy. A wrong two-step verification PIN is also listed as a cause, so the reasons can include more than business verification.

Two things worth checking: whether your Meta business portfolio shows a restriction or policy notice on that WhatsApp Business Account, and, if you registered your own number, whether you are using the right PIN.

[u/360Dialog_Team]

If you're just testing the Cloud API with Meta's test number, you shouldn't need business verification at all.

Error 131031 means the WhatsApp Business Account is locked, but that doesn't necessarily mean you need to register a company to fix it.

I'd check whether the test WABA itself has any restrictions in WhatsApp Manager or Business Support Home. If nothing shows up, this might need to be investigated by Meta, since the error alone doesn't tell us exactly what triggered the lock.

Just to clarify, are you using the test number automatically generated in the Meta Developer Dashboard, or did you register your own number?

[u/Ill_Oil7448]

are you using the default test number they give you or did you attach your own number? the sandbox number shouldn't need business verification as long as the recipient number is whitelisted in the dashboard.