The Central government has directed Meta to put the rollout of WhatsApp’s proposed username feature in India on hold until consultations on its privacy, security and cybercrime implications are completed.
The Ministry has issued a notice to Meta’s Chief Compliance Officer, seeking a detailed explanation within three days on how the feature will function and what safeguards will be in place to prevent misuse.
Government seeks clarification
The proposed feature would allow WhatsApp users to connect using unique usernames instead of sharing their mobile phone numbers, offering greater privacy.
However, officials are assessing whether the system could make it easier for cybercriminals to impersonate individuals or organisations and whether it could create additional challenges for law enforcement agencies investigating online fraud.
The government has asked Meta to explain how usernames will be verified, how impersonation will be prevented and what mechanisms will be used to detect and curb abuse before the feature is introduced in India.
WhatsApp outlines safety measures
Responding to the concerns, a WhatsApp spokesperson said the feature has not yet been launched and will be rolled out gradually later this year.
The company said users will still need a mobile number to create and use a WhatsApp account, while usernames will serve only as an additional way to connect with others.
Meta said it has reserved usernames for high-profile individuals, government agencies, celebrities and verified Meta accounts to reduce the risk of impersonation.
The platform also plans to introduce safeguards, including limiting the number of new people an account can contact, preventing repeated attempts to guess usernames and using automated systems to detect suspicious activity.
Additionally, users receiving a first message through a username will be shown contextual information, including whether the sender is a new account, an existing contact, a mutual group member or located in another country.
Experts raise concerns
Cybersecurity experts have expressed concerns that lookalike usernames could be exploited by scammers unless strong verification systems are introduced.
Among those raising concerns are Paytm founder Vijay Shekhar Sharma and KnotDating co-founder Jasveer Singh, who have highlighted the need to balance user privacy with accountability.
The government is expected to continue consultations before deciding whether WhatsApp’s username feature can be introduced in the Indian market.