WhatsApp's new feature allows users to choose a unique username for their account. This username can then be used to contact someone for the first time, instead of their mobile number.

WhatsApp username feature

WhatsApp Username Feature: There's a controversy brewing in India regarding the username feature on WhatsApp. WhatsApp is preparing to introduce a feature that will allow users to connect with others using their usernames alone, without sharing their mobile numbers. The company claims this will improve user privacy. However, the Indian government has raised serious security and cyber fraud concerns regarding this feature. Amidst this, the central government has ordered a halt to the rollout of this feature in India and has issued a show-cause notice to Meta.

The government has asked the company to respond within three days, providing all security measures and necessary documentation related to this feature. The government states that until all aspects are fully reviewed and a satisfactory response regarding security is received, this feature should not be implemented in India.

What is WhatsApp's username feature?

Under WhatsApp's new feature, users will be able to choose a unique username for their account. After this, the username can be used instead of the mobile number to contact someone for the first time. This means that even if the other person doesn't have your number saved, they can still chat or call you using your username, and your mobile number will remain private. The company says that this feature will be completely optional, and only users who wish to use it will be able to use it. Furthermore, knowing the correct username of a person will be necessary to contact them.

Why is the government worried about the new feature?

The central government believes that with the introduction of this feature, cybercriminals will be able to easily defraud people by creating usernames that resemble those of famous individuals, government institutions, banks, or organizations. This is likely to increase online fraud, phishing, digital arrests, and cybercrime through fake identities. According to government officials, the Ministry of Home Affairs has also expressed concern that a large number of people who are not technologically savvy will be unable to differentiate between usernames and will easily fall prey to this feature. The government is also investigating whether this feature violates the provisions of the existing IT Act and the IT Rules 2021. If security measures are found to be inadequate, it may consider halting the rollout altogether.

Is hiding a phone number also a crime?

Simply hiding a phone number or using a username to enhance privacy is not a crime. The government's objection isn't to the fact that users can hide their phone number, but rather to the possibility that this feature could be used to defraud people by creating fake identities. Therefore, the focus of the controversy isn't privacy, but rather the potential threat of impersonation and cyber fraud.

What did Meta say in its defense?

Meta says that while this feature isn't live yet, it will be rolled out gradually this year. According to the company, despite having a username, providing a mobile number will still be required to use WhatsApp. The company claims that several security measures have been implemented to prevent impersonation. Key usernames associated with government organizations, celebrities, and verified Meta accounts have already been protected to prevent them from being used by others. Additionally, several similar usernames have also been reserved.