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WhatsApp. Messages and calls

You do not need to learn everything today.
If you can send one short message and read a reply, you are doing great.

Use this topic if you or someone you support want to:
  • Set up WhatsApp, or check you are signed in.
  • Send your first message to a person you trust.
  • Reply to a message.
  • Make a voice or video call.
  • Join or leave a group chat (optional).

Tip

If you are helping someone else, sit beside them and let them tap the screen themselves.
Talk them through it. It builds confidence.

What you need

  • A phone with WhatsApp installed.
  • A mobile number (your own).
  • Internet access. Wi Fi or mobile data.
  • About 10 to 15 quiet minutes.
  • One trusted person you can message, like a family member or friend.

Before you start. 60 seconds

  • Make sure your phone is charged, or plugged in.
  • Connect to Wi Fi if you have it.
  • Keep your phone nearby in case a code is sent to you by text.
Step 1. Open WhatsApp and set it up

Choose the path that fits you.

If you already have WhatsApp

  1. Open WhatsApp.
  2. If you see your Chats, you are ready to go.
  3. If WhatsApp asks you to sign in, follow the steps on screen.

Tip

If you cannot remember your WhatsApp PIN or it asks for a code, slow down and read each screen carefully.
It is normal to need a few minutes.

If you do not have WhatsApp yet

  1. Open the App Store (iPhone) or Play Store (Android).
  2. Search for WhatsApp.
  3. Install WhatsApp Messenger.
  4. Open WhatsApp and tap Agree and continue.
  5. Enter your mobile number.
  6. WhatsApp will send you a code by text.
  7. Type the code in WhatsApp.
  8. Add your name. You can add a photo later.

Important

  • WhatsApp will never ask you for your bank details.
  • Never share sign-in codes with anyone.
Step 2. Send your first message
  1. Open WhatsApp.
  2. Tap Chats.
  3. Tap the new chat icon.
    • On many phones this looks like a speech bubble, or a pencil.
  4. Tap the name of the person you want to message.
    • If you do not see them, you may need to add them to your phone contacts first.
  5. Type your message in the box at the bottom.
  6. Tap Send.

Keep it short. One line is enough.

For example: Hi. Just testing WhatsApp.

Step 3. Read a reply and write back
  1. When someone replies, you will see their message in Chats.
  2. Tap the chat to open it.
  3. Type your reply.
  4. Tap Send.

Tip

If you are nervous, reply with one short line first.
For example: Thanks. I got your message.

Step 4. Make a call
  1. Open the chat with the person you want to contact.

  2. Look at the top right of the screen.

    • :octicons-phone-16: Phone icon. Voice call
    • Camera icon. Video call

  3. Tap the icon you want.

  4. To end the call, tap End.

If the call does not connect, check your internet.

Step 5. Join a group chat (optional)

A group chat is one conversation with several people.
For example, a family group, neighbours, or a local club.

You only need this if someone has invited you.

  1. If someone invites you, you will see a message that says you were added to a group.
  2. Tap the group name to open it.
  3. Read the messages first.
  4. When you are ready, type a short hello and tap Send.

Important

In group chats, do not share private information like your address, bank details, or one-time codes.

Step 6. Leave or mute a group chat (optional)

If a group is noisy, confusing, or not relevant, you can change how it affects you.

To mute messages

  1. Open the group chat.
  2. Tap the group name at the top.
  3. Tap Mute notifications.
  4. Choose how long to mute.

To leave the group

  1. Open the group chat.
  2. Tap the group name at the top.
  3. Scroll down and tap Exit group.
  4. Tap Exit to confirm.

Leaving a group is okay. You do not need to explain.

Common problems

If this happens Try this
I cannot send or receive messages Check your internet connection. Try Wi Fi or mobile data.
I cannot find the person Check they are saved in your phone contacts. Then reopen WhatsApp.
I am not hearing calls ring Check your phone volume and notification settings.
This group has too many messages Mute notifications. If it is not relevant, leave the group.
I received a strange message or link Do not click it. Ask someone you trust. If it feels urgent or asks for money, treat it as a scam.

If you are still stuck, see:
Quick fixes. When something goes wrong

If something feels wrong

If someone messages you and it feels urgent, frightening, or asks for money or codes:

  • Pause.
  • Do not reply right away.
  • Do not click links.
  • Do not send photos of bank cards, passports, or one-time codes.

Important

If money or accounts might be at risk, go to:
Money at risk. Do this first

Next step

Once you can message and make a call, you are ready to try keeping in touch on Facebook.