WhatsApp has temporarily halted the rollout of its username feature in India after the Central government raised concerns over potential fraud, phishing, and impersonation. Meta has assured authorities that the feature will not be launched until consultations with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) are completed.
Key Highlights
- WhatsApp pauses username feature rollout in India.
- Government cites fraud and impersonation concerns.
- Meta gets three more days to respond to the notice.
- Username creation will remain optional for users.
New Delhi, July 6 WhatsApp has decided to keep its proposed username feature on hold in India after the Central government raised concerns that the new system could increase the risk of online fraud, phishing, and identity impersonation. The company has assured authorities that the feature will not be introduced until discussions are completed.
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) recently issued a notice asking the Meta-owned messaging platform to explain the security measures built into the feature. The government has now granted WhatsApp an additional three days to submit its response after the original deadline expired.
The proposed feature would allow users to connect on WhatsApp without sharing their mobile phone numbers, giving them greater privacy. However, officials believe that anonymous usernames could make it easier for cybercriminals to deceive users or impersonate legitimate individuals and organisations.
A Meta delegation met MeitY officials to discuss the proposed rollout and explain the safeguards designed to protect users. The company has maintained that multiple security measures have been incorporated to reduce misuse and strengthen user safety.
WhatsApp has also clarified that creating a username will be entirely optional. It added that usernames linked to government entities, public figures, celebrities, Meta Verified accounts, Instagram, and Facebook have already been reserved to ensure they can only be claimed by their rightful owners.
While WhatsApp continues preparing the feature for a broader global launch later this year, its rollout in India will remain on hold until the government is satisfied that adequate consumer protection and cybersecurity safeguards are in place.
Conclusion
The temporary pause reflects India’s increasing focus on digital safety, ensuring that new online features balance user privacy with strong protections against fraud and impersonation.
