If WhatsApp shows a red exclamation mark behind your message, the delivery of your message was canceled. Various problems may be occurring.
WhatsApp red exclamation mark: How to proceed
If a red exclamation mark appears behind your message on WhatsApp, the sending of the message has been aborted. If there is a small clock behind your message, WhatsApp is still trying to deliver it. If there is a red exclamation mark, however, the sending has been aborted completely. You now have various options as to how to proceed.
- Reasons for shipping cancellation: Possible reasons for the message being interrupted could be a disruption to your internet connection, a problem loading the app or WhatsApp itself.
- Another attempt: First, you can try sending your message again. To do this, click on the red exclamation mark. Choose to resend the message. If that doesn't work, you can copy the message, paste it back into the text box below and try sending it that way.
- Check connection and restart: If you are unable to send your message, check your internet connection. Sometimes switching between Wi-Fi and mobile data helps. Restart your smartphone and WhatsApp. Sometimes a restart solves the problem.
- WhatsApp update or disruption: You may need the latest version of WhatsApp. Outdated versions can cause problems. Update the app if necessary. Occasionally, the provider's servers may be down. You may find outage reports online. Be patient and try sending later.
- Extra tip: If you often send photos or videos, or if you have an older phone, WhatsApp can quickly fill up the storage space on your smartphone. You can delete the files via the settings in the app and thus create free storage space for the applications on your smartphone to function smoothly. Consider a newer model.