Kolkata: WhatsApp username. WhatsApp has started rolling out this new feature slowly from June 29 across the world. Although the central government has sent a notice to Meta about this feature. The Center has said that WhatsApp’s new Username feature cannot be launched in India for now. According to sources, the company has been asked to respond within three days seeking a detailed explanation about this feature. It has also been ordered not to launch this feature in India until the process of negotiation with the government is over.
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It is clear from this move of the government, that the final decision will be taken after studying the possible impact of the new feature. However, Meta has yet to publicly respond to the notice or the government’s directive.
WhatsApp recently announced that users will be able to communicate with others through a specific username without sharing phone numbers. The company claims that this system will further protect the privacy of users’ phone numbers. To contact someone, you only need to know their correct username. As a result, one no longer has to share phone numbers against their will when communicating on WhatsApp.
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However, cyber security experts have also expressed concern about this feature. They fear that without adequate security measures, incidents of identity fraud, creation of fake accounts and online fraud may increase. Using usernames named after popular people or organizations can mislead people. There may also be a risk of fraud.
Govt to look into WhatsApp’s usernames feature over impersonation concerns. Govt to look into legal mechanisms to possibly block feature. Govt to look into legality of WhatsApp’s username feature. If feature is found risk-prone, Govt could send legal notice to Meta: Sources pic.twitter.com/SvHUlyTVYf
— ANI (@ANI) July 1, 2026
As per current laws in India, messaging platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram are required to link user accounts with a verified mobile number. The Telecom Cyber Security Rules 2024 include this obligation to prevent digital fraud.
In this scenario, the Center wants a meta-detailed explanation of the potential risks and security measures before launching the new feature. A final decision on the launch of the WhatsApp Username feature in India will be taken only after the discussions with the government are over. As a result, Indian users will have to wait for some more time for this new facility.
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