The Indian government has begun examining WhatsApp’s upcoming usernames feature amid concerns that it could create new opportunities for fraud, impersonation, and identity misuse. The feature, announced by Meta-owned WhatsApp earlier this week, would allow users to connect using unique usernames instead of sharing their phone numbers. While WhatsApp has positioned the update as a privacy enhancement, officials are evaluating whether it could also make it easier for scammers to disguise their identities.
What Are WhatsApp Usernames?
The new feature will allow users to reserve a unique username and share it with others instead of providing their mobile number. WhatsApp says the change is designed to improve privacy, especially when interacting with people outside a user’s contact list.
Unlike platforms such as Telegram or Instagram, WhatsApp does not plan to offer a public directory of usernames. Users will need to know a person’s exact username before initiating a conversation. The company has also introduced restrictions on username formats and additional verification safeguards to reduce misuse.
Why Is the Government Concerned?
Officials at the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) are reportedly concerned that usernames could make impersonation easier by allowing users to hide their phone numbers from first-time contacts. Authorities fear that cybercriminals may create usernames resembling those of government agencies, banks, public figures, or trusted organisations to deceive users.
The government is particularly worried about the potential rise in phishing attacks, online fraud, identity theft, and so-called “digital arrest” scams that have become increasingly common in recent years. According to officials, the feature could make it more difficult for users to verify the identity of unknown contacts.
Centre Seeks Explanation From Meta
Reports indicate that the government has asked Meta to explain the feature in detail and provide information about the safeguards that will be implemented to prevent misuse. Authorities have also reportedly instructed the company not to roll out the feature in India until consultations are completed and concerns are addressed.
The notice reportedly seeks clarification on how WhatsApp plans to handle impersonation attempts, fraudulent accounts, and compliance with India’s Information Technology rules.
WhatsApp’s Response
WhatsApp has maintained that usernames are intended to enhance privacy rather than reduce accountability. The company says users will still need a valid phone number to create an account, and several safeguards have been built into the system. These include reserved usernames, reporting tools, identity indicators for unknown contacts, and restrictions on username creation.
The company also notes that users receiving messages from unknown contacts will see additional information, such as whether the account is newly created, whether both parties share mutual groups, and other contextual details that can help identify suspicious accounts.
What Happens Next?
The government’s review highlights the growing regulatory scrutiny facing large technology platforms in India. While the usernames feature is already being introduced globally, its launch in India may face delays until authorities are satisfied that sufficient safeguards exist to prevent misuse.
Given that India is WhatsApp’s largest market, the outcome of these discussions could influence how the feature is implemented not only in the country but potentially in other regions as well.
