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OpenClaw WhatsApp Setup Guide

WhatsApp can feel smoother than other channels, but it also has more session, QR, and risk-control edge cases. Use this OpenClaw WhatsApp setup guide when you want a personal chat-style channel and you are comfortable operating it with a spare account.

Why WhatsApp needs extra care

  • Session pairing depends on QR login and can expire quickly
  • Frequent reconnects can trigger account risk controls
  • A spare account is safer than your primary personal number

Step 1: Enable the WhatsApp channel

Command
openclaw config set channels.whatsapp.enabled true

Step 2: Restart the gateway and scan the QR code

Command
openclaw gateway restart# Run in foreground if needed:openclaw gateway

Scan in WhatsApp: Settings -> Linked Devices -> Link a device

Step 3: Test a real message flow

  • Send a message from a private chat
  • Confirm OpenClaw replies
  • Restart once and verify the session still survives

Common WhatsApp issues

  • QR expired -> restart and scan quickly
  • Disconnects -> use systemd, pm2, or Docker restart policies
  • Risk controls -> use a spare account and avoid frequent reconnects
  • No reply after reconnect -> compare runtime checks in /docs/troubleshooting

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