India has asked Meta to suspend the planned rollout of WhatsApp’s new username feature, raising concerns that the update could expose millions of users to a new wave of online scams and identity fraud. The Indian government’s Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) reportedly urged the tech giant to delay the launch until further discussions are held on the potential risks associated with the feature.
WhatsApp recently announced plans to introduce unique usernames that would allow users to connect without sharing their phone numbers, a move aimed at strengthening privacy and improving user experience. While the feature has been welcomed by privacy advocates, Indian authorities fear it could unintentionally create opportunities for cybercriminals to impersonate legitimate users and deceive unsuspecting victims.
According to reports, government officials warned that fraudsters could exploit the username system by creating accounts that closely resemble those of trusted individuals, businesses or public figures. Authorities are particularly concerned about users with limited digital literacy, who may struggle to identify fake accounts and could become easy targets for phishing attacks, financial scams and identity theft.
Meta has responded by assuring regulators that the feature has not yet been launched in India and that several safeguards have already been built into the system. The company said it has reserved usernames linked to high-profile personalities and verified accounts to prevent misuse. Meta also emphasized that users will still need a valid phone number to register for WhatsApp and that multiple security measures have been incorporated to reduce the risk of scams and impersonation.
The debate comes at a time when cybercrime is becoming an increasingly serious challenge in India, WhatsApp’s largest market with more than 500 million users. Government figures show that cyber fraud losses in the country surged to nearly $3 billion in 2025, highlighting the growing threat posed by online criminals. As regulators and Meta continue discussions, the future of the WhatsApp username rollout in India remains uncertain, reflecting the delicate balance between enhancing privacy and ensuring user safety in the digital age.
source: The Guardian
