Opt-in can be collected on a website or portal form (a checkbox or clear line next to the phone field), in a lead form, on a call that is noted on the lead, or when the customer messages first, for example through a click-to-WhatsApp ad. The wording should name the business and the type of messages — “updates about properties matching my enquiry” — rather than a vague “I agree to be contacted”.
In India the DPDP Act adds its own consent rules for using personal data, so the same opt-in record often serves both: what the person agreed to, when, how, and from which source. Store it with the lead, and when someone replies “stop” or blocks you, stop marketing messages on that channel straight away.
Example
Opt-in wording on a form (illustrative)
A Jaipur broker adds a line under the phone field on his website form: “I agree to receive WhatsApp messages from Pink City Realty about properties matching my enquiry. Reply STOP anytime.” Every submission stores the wording version, time and page. Six months later, a buyer asks why he got a message; the broker can show exactly what he agreed to.
Questions about WhatsApp opt-in
Does a portal enquiry count as WhatsApp opt-in?
Only if the portal form says the business may contact the person on WhatsApp, or the buyer agrees on the first call or messages you first. Record which of these happened. When unsure, use the first conversation to ask and note the answer on the lead.
What happens if I message people without opt-in?
Recipients can block or report your number. Many blocks and reports lower your quality rating, which can limit how many people you can message and can lead Meta to restrict the number. Unconsented use of personal data also creates risk under the DPDP Act.
Sources
- Meta for Developers — Getting opt-in for WhatsApp · accessed
- WhatsApp Business Messaging Policy · accessed
See also
Reviewed