New Delhi, July 1: The Indian government has expressed serious concerns regarding the potential misuse of WhatsApp’s upcoming username feature, which is owned by Meta. Authorities are on high alert and may soon issue a notice to WhatsApp regarding this feature.
According to government sources, there are fears that, similar to Telegram, this new feature could be exploited to create fake identities, leading to scams or the spread of misinformation. This has prompted the government to voice its discontent and raise significant concerns about the proposed feature.
Sources indicate that if a new feature increases the risk of fraud or cybercrime, the messaging platform in question will also be held accountable. The government believes that platforms like WhatsApp must ensure their products are not used for impersonation or disseminating misleading information.
WhatsApp is set to introduce a feature that allows users to connect with family, friends, or businesses using only a username, without sharing their mobile numbers.
According to WhatsApp, users will be able to choose a unique username similar to those on social media platforms. Meta has stated that the purpose of this feature is to protect users’ mobile number privacy. To contact someone, another user must know their exact username.
However, cybersecurity experts warn that while this feature may enhance privacy, it could also increase risks of impersonation and online fraud. They argue that robust anti-abuse systems and effective security measures are essential to protect millions of users in a vast digital market like India.
It is noteworthy that messaging platforms like Telegram and Signal already allow users to communicate using only usernames while keeping their mobile numbers hidden.
Currently, under Indian laws, messaging platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram are required to link accounts to a verified mobile number. The Telecom Cyber Security Rules, 2024, enforced by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), implement strict provisions related to SIM binding to curb digital fraud.
Meanwhile, entrepreneur Ankur Wariku has also expressed concerns about this feature. He stated on social media that if WhatsApp does not establish an effective anti-abuse system, large-scale fraud could occur in India by creating fake usernames resembling those of well-known individuals or reputable companies.
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