Govt. Puts WhatsApp Username Feature On Hold Over Fraud

The Indian government has asked Meta who owned WhatsApp to temporarily stop rolling out its new username feature. Officials have asked the company to explain how the new feature will work and submit a detailed report within three days. Although usernames are meant to protect users' privacy by hiding phone numbers the government is worried they could make it easier for scammers to impersonate people, spread fake identities, and carry out financial fraud. The notice said the new feature could make it easier for scammers to contact people and pretend to be someone else. They could use usernames that look similar to those of real people, banks, government offices or other trusted organisations to trick users. Officials also said that if WhatsApp's explanation is not satisfactory then the company will not be allowed to roll out the feature.

WhatsApp has said that the username feature is not available yet. It will be released slowly later this year with several safety features. When people asked how the company would stop scammers, WhatsApp said it has different security measures in place. Users will also be able to add a username key, which is a short number code. This means someone will need both the username and the code to contact that person.

A WhatsApp spokesperson said that the company has reserved well known usernames including those of public figures, government organizations, celebrities, and verified Meta accounts. These usernames can only be claimed by their real owners. WhatsApp also said it will show warning messages when someone receives a message from a user for the first time. The company will limit how many people new accounts can contact and will keep an eye on reports and blocked accounts to spot scams and fake profiles.  

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