The government has issued a notice to Meta over the introduction of a new username feature on WhatsApp. The company has been asked to submit a detailed explanation within three days regarding how the feature will work and what safety measures are in place, as per sources cited by News agency.
The new update on WhatsApp allows users to connect with others without sharing their mobile phone numbers. While the feature is designed to improve privacy, it has raised concerns among authorities.
Officials are worried that the option to use usernames instead of phone numbers could increase the risk of impersonation, fraud, and misuse of accounts. There are fears that some users may take advantage of the system to mislead others or spread false or harmful information.
The government is closely reviewing the feature and its possible impact on user safety.
All about new WhatsApp feature
WhatsApp is working on a new feature that will allow users to connect with others using usernames instead of phone numbers. The update is aimed at improving privacy, particularly when people join group chats or start conversations with new contacts.
The messaging platform, owned by Meta, has already begun letting users reserve their preferred usernames ahead of the full rollout. The feature is expected to be released more widely in the coming months.Once available, users who set a username will be able to chat without showing their mobile number to people they interact with for the first time. This is designed to give users more control over their personal information.
How to reserve username
To reserve a username, users need to update WhatsApp to the latest version. The option can be found in Settings, under Account, where a “Username” section has been added. The app also offers a built-in suggestion tool to help users pick an available and unique handle.
With billions of users worldwide, WhatsApp has opened early reservations so people have a better chance of securing their desired usernames before general access begins. The company also plans to allow some users to match their WhatsApp username with the same handle they use on platforms like Instagram or Facebook, helping maintain a consistent online identity.
WhatsApp has confirmed that it will not introduce a public search directory for usernames. Instead, users will need to know the exact username to start a conversation. An optional extra security setting, called a username key, will also be available, allowing users to control who can message them.
