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WhatsApp Username Feature Sparks Security Fears
7 Jul
Summary
- Government granted Meta a three-day extension for response.
- New username feature may increase digital fraud risks.
- Meta claims layered defenses will address security concerns.
Authorities have granted Meta, the parent company of WhatsApp, an additional three days to address concerns regarding its new username feature. Government officials expressed significant worries about digital security and the potential for increased scams during a recent meeting with Meta representatives. These concerns stem from the feature's design, which allows users to interact without revealing their phone numbers.
Cybersecurity experts have voiced apprehension that this level of anonymity could embolden fraudsters, potentially leading to a rise in impersonation scams. The article notes that digital fraud cost Indian users approximately Rs 22,500 crore in 2025 alone. Meta has responded by asserting that robust security measures are in place, including advanced algorithms and safeguards for prominent names, to counter these potential threats.
The new username feature is intended to enhance user privacy on WhatsApp, a platform with over three billion global users. Currently, phone numbers are the primary contact method. With usernames, this number will not be automatically visible in initial messages or when added to large groups, offering a greater degree of privacy.
