Guwahati: The Union government has directed Meta-owned WhatsApp to suspend the rollout of its proposed username feature in India, citing fears that it could increase cyber fraud, phishing attacks and impersonation scams.
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has issued a notice to Meta asking the company not to introduce the feature until consultations with the government are completed. The ministry has also sought a detailed explanation and supporting documents within three days on the feature’s design, safeguards and potential risks.
WhatsApp recently announced plans to introduce usernames that would allow users to connect without sharing their phone numbers, describing the feature as a privacy enhancement. Users would be able to communicate using unique usernames instead of revealing their mobile numbers to first-time contacts.
However, the government has expressed concern that the new system could be exploited by cybercriminals to impersonate individuals, government agencies or trusted organisations. Officials believe concealing phone numbers may make it easier for fraudsters to carry out phishing campaigns, financial scams and so-called “digital arrest” frauds.
The notice warns that if adequate safeguards are not in place, the feature could enable malicious actors to contact unsuspecting users while masking their identities. Authorities have indicated that digital platforms will be held accountable if new features facilitate online fraud or compromise user safety.
Meta had announced a phased global rollout of the username feature, with India included among the markets where users could begin reserving usernames. Following the government’s intervention, the launch in India will remain on hold pending regulatory consultations.
Responding to the concerns, WhatsApp said the username feature is optional and includes protections against misuse. The company has stated that usernames will not be publicly searchable and that users cannot be contacted randomly without knowing their exact username. It also said additional security measures are being built into the system to reduce impersonation risks.