The Indian government has directed Meta to suspend the rollout of WhatsApp’s new username feature, citing concerns that the update could lead to an increase in online fraud, phishing attacks and identity impersonation.
The directive was issued by India’s Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, which has also asked Meta to provide a detailed explanation of how the feature will protect users from misuse before it is introduced in the country. Authorities reportedly gave the company three days to respond while consultations continue.
The proposed feature would allow WhatsApp users to communicate using unique usernames instead of sharing their phone numbers. Meta says the change is designed to improve user privacy by allowing people to connect without revealing their personal contact details.
However, Indian authorities fear the feature could make it easier for fraudsters to create fake identities, impersonate individuals, businesses and government agencies, and carry out phishing scams. The government warned that greater anonymity on the platform could increase cybercrime in a country that has witnessed a sharp rise in online financial fraud in recent years.
India is WhatsApp’s largest market, with more than 500 million users, making any change to the messaging platform particularly significant. Officials said the feature will remain on hold until Meta satisfactorily addresses concerns surrounding user safety, identity verification and fraud prevention.
In response, WhatsApp maintained that the username feature has been designed with multiple safeguards. The company said usernames will be optional, protected and not searchable, while users will still need a phone number to register an account. Meta also stated that the feature includes measures intended to reduce impersonation and unwanted contact.
The decision has sparked debate among technology experts and digital rights advocates. While some support the government’s move as a necessary step to protect users from cybercrime, others argue that requiring government approval before launching new features could discourage innovation and raise concerns about regulatory overreach.
The dispute highlights the growing challenge of balancing user privacy with online security. Although username based messaging can reduce the need to share personal phone numbers, regulators worry that criminals could exploit the system to deceive unsuspecting users.
For now, the rollout of WhatsApp usernames in India remains suspended pending further discussions between Meta and the government. The outcome of the consultations could shape how similar privacy features are introduced in one of the world’s largest digital markets and may influence regulatory approaches in other countries.
SOURCE: CHANNELS TV
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