Govt halts WhatsApp username rollout in India, seeks reply in 3 days

New Delhi: The Centre on Wednesday issued a notice to Meta over the proposed rollout of the usernames feature on WhatsApp in India, directing the company to explain the feature within three days and refrain from launching it until consultations with the government are completed.

According to sources, the Centre has sought a detailed explanation from Meta on the new feature and has directed the company to submit its response within three days.

The government has also asked Meta not to roll out the “usernames” feature in India until consultations on the matter are completed, the sources added.

The move indicates that the Centre is examining the implications of the proposed feature before allowing its launch in the country.

However, Meta has not yet publicly responded to the government’s notice or the directions regarding the rollout of the feature.

Earlier in the day, sources indicated that popular messaging platforms could be held accountable if new features create opportunities for fraud, amid growing debate over WhatsApp’s recently announced username feature.

They said that messaging platforms like WhatsApp must ensure that their products are not misused for impersonation or misinformation.

WhatsApp is launching usernames for privacy, enabling users to interact without disclosing phone numbers.

While this can protect user identity, cyber-security experts warn of risks like impersonation and scams, highlighting the necessity for robust anti-abuse measures to ensure safety of millions of users in India.

WhatsApp has announced the rollout of usernames, allowing users of the instant messaging platform to communicate with family, friends, or businesses without sharing their phone numbers.

According to WhatsApp, users will soon be able to pick unique usernames, similar to those on social media platforms. Meta described the move as “designed to protect the privacy of your phone number,” adding that “people need to know your exact username to contact you.”

Earlier, Telegram and Signal also allowed users to hide their phone numbers and use only a username for a very long time.

However, the Indian laws require messaging platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram to link to a verified mobile number. Under the Telecom Cyber Security Rules, 2024, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) enforces strict SIM-binding mandates to combat digital fraud.

Entrepreneur Ankur Warikoo also expressed concerns about fake usernames that could resemble a well-known person or business. “In a country such as India, this could be a disaster, if the right anti-abuse systems are not set up by WhatsApp,” he posted on social media.

IANS