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Government’s strictness on username feature of WhatsApp, Meta responded to the notice
Samira Vishwas | July 10, 2026 3:24 PM CST

Knews Desk- Dialogue has started between the central government and the company regarding the proposed username feature of Meta-owned popular messaging platform WhatsApp. Meta has presented its stand in response to the notice sent by the government. Now the government is reviewing this reply and further action will be considered on that basis. While issuing a notice to Meta last week, the Central Government had raised many important questions regarding the new username feature of WhatsApp. The government believes that if this feature is implemented without adequate security measures, it may lead to an increase in cyber crimes.

The main concern of the government is that by misusing the username feature, cyber criminals can easily target people by hiding their real identity. This may lead to increase in cases like online fraud, phishing, digital arrest scam and impersonation. For this reason, the government had sought detailed information from Meta on the security provisions of this feature and the steps taken to ensure the safety of users.

Responding to the government notice, Meta has shared information about various aspects to its security mechanisms and username feature. However, the government is currently studying the company’s response in detail to assess whether the proposed feature is in line with the safety and cyber security standards of Indian users. In recent years, there has been a steady increase in cyber fraud cases in India. There have been incidents of people being cheated of crores of rupees by using new methods like fake calls, fake social media profiles, phishing links and digital arrest. In such a situation, the government is taking extra vigilance regarding the new features coming on social media and messaging platforms.

Username feature can help in increasing the privacy of users and establishing contact without sharing mobile number. But if its identity verification system and security measures are not strong enough, cyber criminals can take advantage of it. This is why the government wants to assess in advance any possible risks regarding this feature. At present the government has not taken any final decision on Meta’s response. The response is being technically and legally reviewed by the authorities. Only after the review is completed will it be decided whether the company will have to implement additional security measures or any other instructions will be issued regarding this feature.

Tech industry and cyber security experts are also keeping an eye on this entire matter, because maintaining the security and digital trust of millions of Indian users of WhatsApp is considered a priority for both the government and the company.


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