WhatsApp API Error: (#133016) Too Many Attempts – Registration/Deregistration Failed

If you receive the following error while setting up WhatsApp Business API in eGrow:

(#133016) Registration or Deregistration failed because there were too many attempts for this phone number in a short period of time

This article explains the cause of the issue and how to prevent it in the future.

❗ What This Error Means

This error is returned by Meta when:

• Your business phone number has reached the allowed limit for registration/deregistration attempts.

• Meta allows up to 10 attempts per phone number within a 72-hour window.

• If you exceed this limit, the number will be blocked from registration for 72 hours, and you’ll get a 400 Bad Request response with code 133016.

This is a security mechanism by Meta to prevent abuse and protect your number.

🔐 The Role of the 6-Digit PIN

During the WhatsApp API registration, Meta requires you to set a 6-digit PIN (e.g., 123456) — this is:

• Set by you (not received via SMS).

• Required every time you want to re-register the same phone number.

• Must be remembered to avoid registration failures.

If you forget the PIN and try multiple incorrect attempts, those count toward the 10-attempt limit, and Meta will block the number.

✅ What to Do Now

If you see error #133016:

• ❌ Do NOT keep trying. Further attempts won’t work.

• ⏳ Wait up to 72 hours for Meta to automatically unblock your number.

• ✅ Alternatively, use a new phone number to complete the WhatsApp API setup faster.

🛡️ How to Prevent This Issue

To avoid being blocked again:

1. Carefully choose and remember your 6-digit PIN during the initial setup.

2. Do not retry registration more than 2–3 times if you're unsure of the PIN.

3. After 2 failed attempts, stop immediately and contact eGrow Support.

4. Be aware: each failed or successful attempt counts toward the 10-request limit in any 72-hour period.

📌 Summary of Meta's Limitations

💬 Need Help?

If you're locked out or unsure of your PIN:
👉 Contact eGrow Support immediately.
We'll guide you through your next steps safely.