WhatsApp Username Feature: The government has decided to review WhatsApp's username feature. Officials have stated that WhatsApp will be held responsible if this feature is used for fraud.
WhatsApp Username feature will be reviewed.
WhatsApp Username Feature: The new username feature introduced on the messaging platform WhatsApp has come under scrutiny. This regulation regarding user privacy is raising several other concerns, including fraud, mistaken identity, and scams. In light of this, the government has decided to review the username feature . If any irregularities are found, the company may be issued a notice. According to media reports, government officials stated that WhatsApp will be held responsible if this new feature is used for fraud. The platform must ensure that it is not used for fraud and scams. Let's explore what this feature is and the concerns surrounding it.
What is WhatsApp's new username feature?
WhatsApp has introduced this new rule for user privacy. Users will no longer need a mobile number to contact someone on WhatsApp. Like Telegram, WhatsApp now allows users to contact people using usernames. If the sender and receiver have enabled the username feature, they won't see each other's mobile numbers the first time they message. This feature hasn't been rolled out yet, but the process of reserving usernames has begun.
"Action may be taken like Telegram"
According to an ET report, officials say that misuse of usernames, edited messages, fake groups, and spoofing identities could be addressed, similar to what happened with Telegram during the NEET exam. Platforms must ensure their architecture isn't exploited by malicious actors. It's worth noting that the government temporarily banned Telegram after it was implicated in the paper leaks .
What are the concerns about the new feature?
Currently, if an unknown person contacts you on WhatsApp, their mobile number is visible, making it easier to track them. However, with the introduction of the username feature, the mobile number will no longer be visible. This will give scammers and fraudsters an opportunity to falsely identify themselves or conceal their identities. Furthermore, there is a possibility of increased fraud using similar usernames to impersonate prominent individuals.
What did WhatsApp say about the feature?
WhatsApp has stated that this feature was introduced to enhance user privacy. Several security measures have been implemented to prevent misuse, including detection of impersonation, limits on access to new contacts, protection against username guessing, and reservation of names for public figures.
