WhatsApp is set to introduce one of its most significant privacy updates in recent years by allowing users to connect through usernames instead of sharing their phone numbers. While the feature is intended to provide greater privacy and control, it has also drawn the attention of the Indian government. According to sources, the Centre plans to closely examine the new system, particularly its implications for online fraud and user safety. If any concerns emerge during the review, the government may issue a notice to Meta, WhatsApp’s parent company.
The development comes amid a growing number of online scams in India, where fraudsters frequently use messaging platforms to target users. Authorities are expected to assess whether the username-based system could make it more difficult to identify scammers or whether it can enhance privacy without compromising security.
Government to Assess Privacy and Security Concerns
Sources indicate that the Central Government will review WhatsApp’s upcoming username feature either before or during its rollout. The assessment will focus on privacy, security and the potential risks associated with digital fraud.
Officials are likely to evaluate whether sufficient safeguards are in place to prevent misuse by cybercriminals. Should any shortcomings be identified, Meta may be asked to provide explanations or implement corrective measures.
The review follows WhatsApp’s announcement that usernames will gradually be introduced globally in the coming months. The feature will enable users to initiate conversations using a unique username rather than disclosing their mobile number. Although users will be able to reserve a username through the app, adopting one will remain entirely optional.
WhatsApp has also stated that users will be free to change or remove their usernames at any time. Once the feature is fully implemented, people will be able to communicate using usernames alone while retaining existing safety tools such as blocking and reporting suspicious accounts.
How the Username System Will Function
According to WhatsApp, the primary goal of introducing usernames is to strengthen user privacy. The company recognises that many users are uncomfortable sharing their phone numbers, particularly in group chats or when interacting with someone for the first time.
Explaining the rationale behind the feature, WhatsApp’s Head of Product, Alice Newton-Rex, said the objective is to “give users control over how they choose to show up” on the platform.
Usernames can contain up to 35 characters. Certain names associated with prominent public figures and celebrities will be protected to prevent impersonation and misuse.
Once the feature becomes available, users will be able to reserve a username through the account or profile settings section of the mobile app. During the initial reservation phase, the option will not be available through WhatsApp Web or desktop applications.
For businesses, creators and organisations, WhatsApp plans to offer the ability to claim the same username they already use on Instagram or Facebook, ensuring consistency across Meta’s platforms. Other users who wish to maintain matching usernames across Meta services will be able to do so by linking their accounts through the Meta Accounts Centre.
The rollout will occur in phases, meaning users may not receive access simultaneously. WhatsApp has advised users to keep the application updated and wait for the feature to become available on their accounts.
Concerns Over Potential Misuse
Although WhatsApp maintains that usernames will improve privacy by concealing phone numbers during conversations, some experts and users have expressed concerns that the system could be exploited by scammers impersonating legitimate individuals.
In response, WhatsApp says it has implemented multiple layers of protection designed to identify and prevent abuse. The company also plans to introduce optional username keys—short numerical codes that can be shared alongside usernames to make impersonation attempts more difficult.
WhatsApp has reiterated that private messages remain protected through end-to-end encryption and are not used for advertising purposes. However, like many digital platforms, it continues to collect certain account-related information and metadata, including general location data and basic profile details, for operational and other purposes.
As the username feature moves closer to launch, both regulators and users are expected to closely monitor how effectively it balances enhanced privacy with protection against misuse and fraud.
