MeitY has reportedly asked Meta to pause the rollout of WhatsApp usernames in India while officials examine the legal and security implications. Telegram has also come under the government's scrutiny.

The Central Government is closely examining the proposed username feature planned for messaging platforms such as WhatsApp and Telegram, amid concerns that the functionality could increase the risk of cyber fraud and online impersonation.

According to reports, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has sought detailed information from Meta regarding the planned WhatsApp username system and has asked the company to hold off on introducing the feature in India until discussions with government officials are completed. Similar queries have also reportedly been sent to Telegram as authorities evaluate the broader impact of such features on user safety.

Government sources indicate that officials are now studying the legal framework and possible regulatory measures before deciding whether any restrictions or additional compliance requirements should be introduced.

Why Is the Government Concerned?

The proposed username feature would allow users to communicate without sharing their mobile numbers by using a unique username instead.

While the feature is intended to enhance user privacy, government officials are reportedly concerned that it could also make it easier for cybercriminals to impersonate individuals, businesses, public institutions, or government agencies.

Authorities believe fake usernames resembling trusted identities could be misused for phishing scams, financial fraud, identity theft, and other cybercrimes, making it more difficult for victims to distinguish genuine accounts from fraudulent ones.

These concerns have prompted MeitY to examine whether additional safeguards or legal provisions may be required before such features are introduced in India.

Meta Held Discussions With MeitY

According to media reports, representatives from Meta, the parent company of WhatsApp, met officials from the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology in early July to discuss the government's concerns.

During the meeting, officials reportedly focused on issues related to:

• User privacy.

• Platform security.

• Identity verification.

• Risks of impersonation.

• Potential misuse by cybercriminals.

The government is understood to have requested further clarity on how the proposed system would prevent abuse while maintaining user privacy.

Telegram Also Faces Government Scrutiny

The government's review is not limited to WhatsApp.

Reports indicate that Telegram has also received similar communication from authorities as officials assess whether username-based communication systems could create comparable cybersecurity challenges across messaging platforms.

The review is part of a broader effort to strengthen online safety and reduce the growing number of digital fraud cases in the country.

How the WhatsApp Username Feature Works

Meta has explained that the proposed username is an optional and unique identifier that users can create for their WhatsApp account.

Instead of sharing a mobile number, users would be able to connect through a username beginning with the "@" symbol.

The company says this feature is designed to provide greater privacy by allowing users to message or call one another without revealing their phone numbers.

Username vs Display Name

Meta has clarified that a username and a display name are different.

According to the company:

• A display name is the profile name visible to other users and does not have to be unique.

• A username is a unique identifier assigned to only one account.

• Creating a username will remain optional rather than mandatory.

Users who do not know someone's phone number would continue to see the account's display name during chats, voice calls, video calls, and group conversations.

Reserved Usernames for Verified Entities

To reduce misuse, Meta has stated that certain usernames will be reserved for:

• Government organizations.

• Businesses.

• Public figures.

• Celebrities.

• Verified organizations.

These reserved usernames cannot be claimed by other users, helping reduce the risk of impersonation involving prominent entities.

What Happens Next?

The government is currently evaluating the legal and regulatory implications of introducing username-based communication on messaging platforms. Officials are expected to complete consultations with the companies before taking a final decision.

If required, additional compliance measures or platform-specific guidelines could be introduced to address cybersecurity concerns while balancing user privacy and digital innovation.

Until an official notification is issued, the proposed username feature remains under regulatory review in India.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is based on publicly reported developments and statements available at the time of writing. Any regulatory action or platform changes will depend on future announcements by the Government of India and the respective companies.