Telegram, Signal asked IT Ministry to explain anti-fraud measures in username features after WhatsApp alert | Today’s news
The Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY) has stepped up its scrutiny of messaging platforms by issuing notices to Telegram and Signal over their username-based features, PTI reported citing a source. Earlier, the government had raised concerns about Meta-owned WhatsApp.
According to the news agency’s source, the government sought an explanation from the platforms on how they address the risks of fraud, impersonation and abuse related to usernames that allow users to connect without sharing phone numbers.
Telegram, Signal asked for justification of username systems
A PTI source said the IT ministry had specifically asked Telegram why it should be allowed to continue offering username features. Meanwhile, Signal has been directed to explain the security measures it has in place to prevent abuse.
“The government asked Telegram why this feature should be there,” the source said, highlighting increased regulatory scrutiny over platforms that already offer such identifiers.
WhatsApp under scrutiny for proposed rollout
The Center had earlier announced to Meta the planned introduction of usernames on WhatsApp and warned that the feature could “significantly increase” cases of online fraud, phishing, digital arrests and impersonation attacks, according to a government memo cited by PTI reports.
The notice also ordered WhatsApp to suspend the rollout until consultations were completed “to the satisfaction of the government”.
WhatsApp allows users to create unique usernames starting with the @ symbol, allowing messaging without sharing mobile numbers.
Government extends control across platforms
While WhatsApp has yet to announce the feature, Telegram and Signal already enable username-based communication, raising questions about how existing systems mitigate the risks of impersonation and fraud.
Regulatory concerns about cybercrime risks
In its announcement to Meta, the government said the username feature could “substantially increase” online fraud, phishing, digital arrests and impersonation attacks by allowing bad actors to send messages directly to users.
The announcement also raised concerns about impersonating individuals, public bodies, financial institutions and government agencies through similar usernames.
Meta has been asked to explain why regulatory action should not be initiated under the Information Technology Act, 2000 and the IT Rules, 2021 to launch a feature that may increase the risks of cybercrime.
Read also | MeitY calls out Meta over ‘risks’ of fraud with WhatsApp username feature
Response and Platform Security
WhatsApp has defended its planned rollout, saying it has implemented several safeguards against fraud and impersonation. The company has also released a detailed FAQ that describes how the feature would work and what protections are in place.
According to Meta, usernames are an optional identifier that allows users to connect without revealing phone numbers, with safeguards designed to reduce misuse.
Related regulatory context
Telegram was previously under regulatory scrutiny in India. The platform was temporarily restricted for a week till June 22 due to alleged abuse related to NEET exam paper leaks and fraudulent activity, before services were restored after the ban period ended.
Meanwhile, Zoho-backed messaging platform Arattai has decided to disable its username-based account feature to meet regulatory expectations.
The PTI source added that WhatsApp’s case is currently in the design stage while Telegram is already working on usernames, noting a significant difference in user scale, with WhatsApp having more than 500 million users in India.
Read also | WhatsApp username feature has fraud protection, says Meta
