Unaware WhatsApp users could be slammed with fines for sending certain types of messages.
The popular messaging app has around two billion users worldwide, but users could be liable to copyright infringement, warned mint.com.
The specialist business publication has cautioned people should avoid sharing copyrighted content.
If its original creator found out, they could file a complaint, meaning the person who shared it could be forced to pay damages.
Similarly, the sharing of adult or inapproriate content on WhatsApp can result in legal consequences, especially if any member of the group chat were to complain about it.
And your WhatsApp account could even be banned if you send too many messages, reports Daily Record.
WhatsApp warned users must not send "bulk messages" - when a person or organisation sends a large number of the same message to many phones.
It was often used by companies trying to advertise a product, or even scammers. However, it could also be used by people trying to inform a large group of people of something; for example, a boss trying to get a message to their staff.
Other rule breaking that could see your WhatsApp account banned include impersonating other people and extracting personal information from others. Your account may also be suspended if people report your messages.
WhatsApp said it bans accounts "if we believe the account activity violates our Terms of Service".
If your account is banned, you'll see the following message when trying to access WhatsApp: "Your phone number is banned from using WhatsApp. Contact support for help."
Its website said: "Please keep in mind, we might not issue a warning before banning your account. If you think your account was banned by mistake, please email us and we'll look into your case."
