New Delhi, July 1: Plans by WhatsApp to introduce Username feature in India has hit a hurdle with the government ordering a halt to it and seeking a detailed explanation from the owner company Meta within three days.
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MEITy) directed Meta “not to roll out” the new feature in India until consultations on its privacy and security implications are held to the “satisfaction” of the government.
WhatsApp planned to introduce username-based messaging system, which would allow users to connect without sharing their mobile phone numbers and thus maintain privacy.
The feature is intended to give users greater privacy and control over their personal information.
In a notice to the Chief Compliance Officer of Meta, India Operations, the government has asked the company to explain how the feature will work, what mechanisms will be in place to verify users, and how the company plans to prevent impersonation, online fraud and other forms of abuse.
The company has also been told not to launch the feature in India until the ongoing review and consultations are completed.
Username Feature
WhatsApp recently announced plans to introduce usernames globally as one of its biggest privacy updates in recent years.
The feature will allow users to create a unique username that can be shared instead of their phone number while starting new conversations.
Creating a username will be optional. Users who prefer to continue using their phone numbers can do so, while those opting for usernames will be able to change or remove them at any time. Usernames can contain up to 35 characters and must be unique.
The feature is aimed at improving privacy by allowing people to connect without revealing their mobile numbers, particularly when interacting with businesses, creators or individuals they do not know personally.
Meta has said users will continue to have access to existing safety tools, including blocking and reporting suspicious accounts.
The company also plans to allow creators, businesses and organisations to reserve usernames matching their Instagram and Facebook identities, while users will be able to maintain a consistent identity across Meta platforms through the Accounts Centre. (BVI)
