The Government of India has asked Meta to pause the rollout of WhatsApp’s upcoming Username feature until further consultations are completed. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has reportedly sought a detailed explanation from the company, expressing concerns that the feature could increase impersonation, phishing, and online fraud if not backed by strong safeguards. Meta has been asked to respond within three days.
What Is the WhatsApp Username Feature?
WhatsApp’s new feature allows users to create a unique username so they can connect with others without sharing their mobile phone numbers. The move is intended to improve user privacy, similar to platforms like Telegram, Instagram, and X. Instead of giving out a phone number, users can simply share their username to start a conversation.
Why Is the Government Concerned?
Officials believe the feature could make it easier for fraudsters to impersonate government agencies, police officers, banks, celebrities, and businesses. Since users would see a username instead of an unfamiliar phone number, cybercriminals could create convincing fake identities to carry out phishing attacks, financial scams, or so-called “digital arrest” frauds.
Identity Verification Is the Key Issue
The government wants Meta to explain how usernames will be verified, how duplicate or misleading usernames will be prevented, and what security measures will stop impersonation. Authorities are also evaluating whether the feature could reduce traceability during cybercrime investigations.
WhatsApp’s Response
Meta has clarified that the username feature has not yet been fully rolled out in India and says it includes multiple privacy protections. According to the company, usernames are optional, not publicly searchable, and users will still need to know the exact username to initiate contact. High-profile usernames are also expected to receive additional protection against impersonation.
Balancing Privacy and Safety
The username system is designed to improve privacy by reducing the need to share personal phone numbers. However, regulators argue that stronger privacy must also be accompanied by robust safeguards against cybercrime, especially in India, which has one of the world’s largest WhatsApp user bases and faces a growing number of online fraud cases.
What Happens Next?
For now, the nationwide rollout of WhatsApp usernames remains under review. The government will examine Meta’s response before deciding whether the feature can be introduced or whether additional security measures will be required. The outcome could shape how messaging platforms balance privacy, innovation, and user safety in one of their largest markets.
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