Meta Platforms has defended its upcoming WhatsApp username feature, saying it has introduced multiple layers of security to curb misuse after the Indian government expressed concerns that the update could lead to a rise in cyber fraud.
A Meta spokesperson said users will continue to need a phone number to create and use a WhatsApp account, adding that the company has incorporated several safeguards to reduce the risk of scams. “Users still require a phone number to use WhatsApp, and we’ve built multiple layers of defense against scams into usernames,” the spokesperson said.
According to Meta, the feature will restrict how many new contacts an account can message, prevent repeated attempts to guess usernames, and use automated systems to detect and remove suspicious or abusive behaviour, including cases of impersonation.
The company also clarified that the username feature has not yet been launched and will be introduced in phases later this year. It described the update as a significant privacy enhancement that will allow people to connect on WhatsApp without revealing their mobile numbers.
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The Indian government, however, has raised serious concerns over the proposed rollout, warning that the feature could be exploited by cybercriminals. Officials said usernames may “materially increase the incidence of online fraud, phishing, digital arrest scams and impersonation attacks” and have asked Meta to submit a detailed explanation within three days.
Authorities have sought clarity on the safeguards being implemented and the measures the company intends to adopt to prevent usernames from being misused for targeted fraud, identity theft and impersonation.
The latest exchange comes amid heightened regulatory scrutiny of digital platforms in India, particularly over issues related to online safety, cybercrime and consumer protection. In June, the government had also temporarily banned Telegram over concerns about its alleged involvement in facilitating exam-related fraud.
The episode highlights the continuing push and pull between technology companies rolling out privacy-focused innovations and the government's efforts to ensure such features do not create new avenues for online scams in India's rapidly expanding digital ecosystem.
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