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WhatsApp Username Feature: The government has decided to review WhatsApp's username feature. Officials stated that WhatsApp would be held accountable if this feature is exploited for fraud.

WhatsApp Username Feature: The new username feature introduced on the messaging platform WhatsApp has come under government scrutiny. While the feature was launched to enhance user privacy, it has raised concerns regarding fraud, impersonation, and scams. In light of this, the government has decided to review the feature. Meta could face a notice if any irregularities are detected. According to media reports, government officials stated that WhatsApp would be held responsible if the new feature is used for fraudulent activities. The platform must ensure the feature is not misused for fraud or scams. Let us understand what this feature entails and the concerns associated with it.

What is WhatsApp's new username feature?

WhatsApp has introduced this new feature to enhance user privacy. It eliminates the need for a mobile number to contact someone on the platform. Much like Telegram, users will now be able to connect with others using usernames. If both the sender and receiver have enabled the username feature, they will not see each other's mobile numbers when exchanging messages for the first time. While the feature has not yet been fully rolled out, the process of reserving usernames has already begun.

"Action similar to that taken against Telegram could follow"

According to an ET report, officials state that action regarding misuse—such as the use of usernames, edited messages, fake groups, or impersonation—could mirror the measures taken against Telegram during the NEET exam controversy. Platforms must ensure that their infrastructure is not exploited by malicious actors. It is worth noting that the government had previously imposed a temporary ban on Telegram after it was linked to incidents of paper leaks.

What are the concerns regarding the new feature?

Currently, if an unknown person contacts you on WhatsApp, their mobile number is visible, making it easy to track them; however, with the introduction of the username feature, the mobile number will no longer be displayed. This could provide scammers and fraudsters with an opportunity to misrepresent their identity or conceal it entirely. Additionally, there is a risk of an increase in fraud cases where individuals impersonate prominent figures by using similar usernames.

What has WhatsApp said about the feature?

WhatsApp has stated that this feature was introduced to enhance user privacy. Several safety measures have been implemented to prevent misuse, including mechanisms to detect impersonation, limits on reaching new contacts, protections against attempts to guess usernames, and the reservation of usernames associated with public figures.