What it means
Error 131049 indicates that WhatsApp temporarily blocked your marketing message because the recipient has already received too many similar messages in a limited period. This limit—called “per-user marketing frequency capping”—is meant to prevent spam and preserve message quality.
Why WhatsApp enforces this
To protect users from message overload and reduce message fatigue, WhatsApp limits how many marketing templates each user receives in 24 hours. This helps keep your messages more likely to be read and acted upon.
How to resolve this
Example Workflow
A user receives two marketing messages today and then gets error 131049.
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Instead of resending, wait 24 hours.
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Send a utility message next (like a “Confirm your updated details” template).
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Prompt them to respond.
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Once they respond, resume marketing messages.