WhatsApp Inc. has issued a notice to all users of the application concerning an alert that they may receive while using the platform.
The Facebook-owned messaging app has begun a crackdown on knock-off or third-party versions that will see a number of accounts banned.
The company notified users that an in-app message reading: "Your phone number is banned from using WhatsApp. Contact support for help." will appear for the affected users.
Download official WhatsApp
Should the message pop up for a user, the person will need to download the official WhatsApp application to continue using the platform.
Those using WhatsApp Plus and GB WhatsApp are among those who will be banned.
"WhatsApp doesn't support these third-party apps because we can't validate their security practices," the company stated.
Users were also advised to ensure they have backed up their chats before they download the official app to avoid losing chat history.