New Delhi: The government has asked Meta to delay the rollout of WhatsApp’s username feature in India until a review of privacy and security concerns is completed, according to media reports.
The company has been asked to share details about how the feature will work and the measures planned to prevent misuse. Meta has not issued any public statement on the matter.
The feature will allow WhatsApp users to connect through unique usernames instead of sharing their mobile phone numbers. It is expected to provide users with more control over their personal information.
Officials are reviewing whether the proposed safety measures are enough to prevent issues such as fake accounts, impersonation and online fraud. They are also examining whether the feature could create challenges for agencies investigating cybercrime cases.
The review comes amid rising concerns over digital fraud in India. Authorities are assessing how privacy-focused updates can be introduced while ensuring user safety and support for investigations.
WhatsApp’s username feature is expected to be optional, allowing users to continue using their phone numbers if they choose. The platform’s existing safety tools, including blocking and reporting options, are expected to remain available.
