Govt sends notice to Meta over WhatsApp username feature, seeks detailed reply within 3 days

Two days after WhatsApp announced its new ‘username’ feature that allows users to create unique handles instead of sharing their phone numbers, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has sought a detailed explanation from the messaging platform, people familiar with the matter said on Wednesday.

The ministry has directed WhatsApp to submit details about the feature within three days and has asked the company not to roll it out until consultations with the government are completed to its satisfaction, according to a notice reviewed by HT.

Why has the government raised concerns?

WhatsApp announced the username feature on Monday, saying it would offer users greater privacy by allowing them to connect without revealing their phone numbers. The company has already started enabling users to reserve unique usernames ahead of the planned rollout later this year.

However, MeitY has expressed concerns that the feature could increase cases of online fraud, phishing, digital arrest scams and impersonation attacks by making it easier for criminals to contact victims.

The ministry said usernames could potentially be misused to impersonate individuals, government authorities, financial institutions and other organisations by creating handles similar to genuine identities.

DoT raises SIM-linking concerns

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has also raised questions over whether the feature could affect its SIM-binding directive, which requires messaging platforms such as WhatsApp, Signal, Telegram, Arattai and Snapchat to link accounts with physical SIM cards to improve traceability and curb cybercrime.

A DoT official said usernames could make it harder for law enforcement agencies to identify offenders, especially if criminals use foreign numbers or fake identities while impersonating officials or institutions.

The official also highlighted concerns over WhatsApp’s response time to law enforcement requests, saying delays in obtaining information could complicate investigations.

WhatsApp says usernames will not replace phone numbers

Meta, WhatsApp’s parent company, clarified that the new feature will not change the existing SIM-linking system.

“Usernames do not replace your phone number on WhatsApp — you will need your phone number to register and use the service. Usernames is an additional privacy feature that enables you to connect with someone on WhatsApp without giving away your phone number,” a Meta spokesperson said.

The company added that phone numbers would still remain linked to accounts, ensuring accountability.

WhatsApp adds security measures

WhatsApp said the feature will be rolled out gradually later this year and will include safeguards against misuse.

The company said high-profile usernames, including those linked to public figures, government entities, celebrities and verified accounts, will be protected from unauthorised claims. It will also restrict suspicious activity, limit unwanted messaging and use systems to detect impersonation attempts.

When users receive a first-time message through a username, WhatsApp said they will be shown details such as whether the sender is a new account, a mutual group member, a contact, or based in another country, helping them decide whether to respond.

The username feature will be introduced globally in phases, including in India, later this year.