New Delhi: WhatsApp’s upcoming usernames feature is generating excitement over improved privacy, but cybersecurity experts, entrepreneurs and digital creators have also raised concerns that it could create fresh opportunities for impersonation and online scams if strong safeguards are not introduced.
The Meta-owned messaging platform recently announced that users will soon be able to connect using unique usernames instead of sharing their mobile numbers. While the feature is designed to enhance user privacy, critics argue that it may also make it easier for fraudsters to create lookalike profiles that resemble trusted individuals, businesses and public figures.
WhatsApp usernames to roll out later this year
WhatsApp has confirmed that the usernames feature will begin rolling out later this year. Users will be able to choose and reserve unique usernames, allowing others to contact them without knowing their phone number.
The feature is expected to provide an additional layer of privacy, particularly for users interacting in large groups, online communities or with people they do not know personally.
However, the announcement has sparked debate over whether the change could unintentionally increase impersonation attempts and phishing scams.
Tech leaders flag impersonation risks
Several prominent figures from the technology industry have expressed concerns about the feature.
Jasveer Singh, Co-founder of KnotDating, compared the move with Telegram, saying the platform’s username-based communication made it easier for scammers to contact users without knowing their phone numbers.
He wrote that while usernames improve privacy, they could also create new opportunities for fraudsters to approach unsuspecting users through fake identities.
Vijay Shekhar Sharma warns about similar usernames
Paytm founder Vijay Shekhar Sharma also highlighted a potential issue involving lookalike usernames.
He suggested that while verified usernames may eventually become available, scammers could create nearly identical unverified usernames that resemble genuine accounts, potentially confusing users and facilitating fraud.
The concern is similar to issues seen on several social media platforms, where slight spelling variations are often used to impersonate well-known personalities or brands.
Ankur Warikoo raises concerns for Indian users
Entrepreneur and content creator Ankur Warikoo also cautioned that the feature could create challenges in India if adequate anti-abuse systems are not implemented.
He pointed out that malicious users could create usernames with minor spelling changes, extra letters or additional symbols to imitate public figures and deceive people into sending money or sharing sensitive information.
Warikoo stressed that robust verification mechanisms and effective moderation would be essential to minimise misuse.
Privacy benefits versus scam risks
The usernames feature offers several advantages, including:
- Greater privacy by eliminating the need to share phone numbers.
- Easier communication in communities and groups.
- Better control over personal contact information.
However, cybersecurity experts note that the feature could also introduce risks such as:
- Impersonation using similar-looking usernames.
- Phishing attempts through fake accounts.
- Financial scams targeting users by posing as trusted individuals or businesses.
The overall impact will largely depend on the safeguards WhatsApp introduces, including username verification, reporting tools and automated detection systems for fraudulent accounts.
Meta yet to detail anti-abuse measures
WhatsApp has announced the feature but has not yet disclosed the complete set of security measures that will accompany the rollout. Industry observers expect the company to introduce protections against duplicate or misleading usernames before the feature becomes widely available.
As usernames become a common way to connect on the platform, experts say balancing user privacy with strong identity verification will be critical to preventing misuse and maintaining trust.
Conclusion
WhatsApp’s usernames feature promises a significant privacy upgrade by allowing users to communicate without revealing their phone numbers. At the same time, it has triggered legitimate concerns about impersonation and scam attempts. The success of the feature will likely depend on how effectively WhatsApp implements verification tools and anti-abuse systems before its full rollout.