Government to assess ‘risks’ of WhatsApp username feature: ‘Will not compromise national security’ | Today’s news
The government is reportedly looking into WhatsApp’s planned username feature amid fears it could be misused for impersonation and fraud. Sources told PTI that the government will assess the possible risks.
They noted that the latest announcement by the Meta-owned platform to introduce usernames, a feature that will allow users to communicate without sharing their phone numbers, raises concerns.
What is the new feature of WhatsApp?
This feature allows users to reserve their optional usernames by going to “Settings”, then “Account” and “Username” in the latest version of the app.
Quick answers to key questions
•5 QUESTIONS
WhatsApp’s new username feature allows users to reserve unique usernames for communication without sharing their phone numbers, increasing privacy, especially in group chats.
The Indian government is concerned that the username feature could allow impersonation and fraud, which could threaten national security and public safety.
Users can claim their existing Instagram or Facebook usernames on WhatsApp by reserving them through the app’s settings, supporting creators and businesses in maintaining a consistent online identity.
Yes, users should approach the new username feature with caution as it can lead to impersonation and fraud if WhatsApp doesn’t put in place proper safeguards.
The introduction of usernames could lead to problems such as similar usernames, fake accounts and various scams, so user vigilance is essential.
The platform also introduced a username generator to help users choose a unique handle.
Read also | WhatsApp usernames could open the platform to impersonation and fraud
To help content creators, small businesses and organizations maintain a consistent online presence, the platform has given them the ability to claim their existing Instagram or Facebook usernames on WhatsApp.
The company has opened early reservations for usernames that will officially launch later this year.
“Starting this week, you can reserve a username to use later this year when we launch this feature,” WhatsApp said in a blog post.
The messaging app clarified that there will be no public directory to browse username suggestions.
Read also | WhatsApp usernames could open the platform to impersonation and fraud
“People will need to know your exact username to contact you the first time. To help you control who can contact you on WhatsApp with your username, we’ve created an optional username key that others will need to know in order to message you,” the blog post said.
Once the feature is fully operational, users who have enabled the username will no longer have their phone numbers visible when they first message a person or business.
The feature will be rolled out gradually over the coming months, and users will receive an in-app notification once it’s available in their respective countries, the company said.
What is it about?
The WhatsApp feature may allow users to adopt usernames similar to those of bona fide agencies and other entities, potentially enabling impersonation and fraud, sources told PTI.
They said the feature could have adverse consequences for public safety and society.
Read also | WhatsApp Usernames: Implications for India’s SIM-Tethering Plan
The government will not compromise on national security or public safety, the sources added.
According to the messaging platform, the move is aimed at increasing users’ privacy, especially in group chats or when connecting with new acquaintances, by eliminating the need to exchange phone numbers.
Paytm founder Vijay Shekhar Sharma was one of those who flagged the potential abuse of usernames on WhatsApp.
“Soon you’ll have a verified username on WhatsApp and then unverified similar-sounding usernames… which in turn will…,” Sharma said in a post on X.
Entrepreneur Ankur Warikoo expressed similar concerns about fake usernames that could resemble a well-known person or business.
“In a country like India, it could be a disaster if WhatsApp doesn’t set up proper anti-abuse systems. Imagine getting a message from warikoo / awarikoo / ankurwarikooo / ankur_warikoo / a_warikoo / ankurwarikooofficial etc – asking for money,” he pointed out.
Cyber Security Challenges
Prashant Mali, a Mumbai-based cyber and privacy lawyer, also pointed out that while usernames can ensure privacy, they can be easily misused.
“With usernames, the user’s identity becomes more of a social media, easier to remember but also easier to imitate,” Mali told LiveMint.
