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The Centre on Wednesday issued a notice to Meta over WhatsApp’s proposed usernames feature in India, directing the company to explain the feature within three days and refrain from rolling it out until consultations with the government are completed.
According to sources, the government has sought a detailed explanation from Meta and instructed the company not to introduce the feature in India until the consultation process is concluded.
The move suggests that the Centre is assessing the implications of the feature before permitting its launch. Meta has not yet publicly responded to the notice.
Earlier in the day, sources indicated that messaging platforms could be held accountable if new features create opportunities for fraud. They said platforms such as WhatsApp must ensure their products are not misused for impersonation or misinformation.
WhatsApp is introducing usernames to allow users to communicate without sharing their phone numbers, a move aimed at enhancing privacy.
Cybersecurity experts have warned that the feature could increase the risk of impersonation and scams unless supported by strong anti-abuse measures.
WhatsApp said users will soon be able to choose unique usernames, similar to those on social media platforms.
Meta stated that the feature is designed to protect users’ phone number privacy and that people would need to know the exact username to initiate contact.
Platforms such as Telegram and Signal have long allowed users to hide their phone numbers and communicate through usernames.
Indian regulations require messaging services to remain linked to verified mobile numbers.
Under the Telecom Cyber Security Rules, 2024, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) enforces SIM-binding requirements to combat digital fraud.
Entrepreneur Ankur Warikoo also raised concerns over fake usernames resembling well-known individuals or businesses. He warned that such impersonation could become a serious issue in India.
Warikoo said robust anti-abuse systems must be implemented to prevent misuse.
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