WhatsApp username feature under review as Centre examines Meta's response

The Centre has begun reviewing Meta's response to concerns surrounding WhatsApp's proposed username feature, signalling that discussions between the government and the messaging platform are far from over. At the same time, officials are considering whether India should introduce a standardised policy governing username-based identity systems across digital platforms, according to government sources, reports News18.

The latest development follows the company's submission to the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), after it sought additional time to respond to a government notice questioning the security implications of the proposed feature.

WhatsApp's planned update would allow people to connect using usernames instead of sharing their mobile numbers. While the change is intended to offer users greater privacy, the government has argued that such a system could also make it more difficult to identify individuals involved in online crimes.

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The Centre's concerns stem from the growing volume of cyber fraud cases reported across the country, including phishing attacks, impersonation scams and so-called "digital arrest" frauds. Officials believe that introducing usernames without adequate safeguards could create new opportunities for criminals to disguise their identities and target unsuspecting users.

Last week, the government formally asked Meta not to introduce the feature in India until consultations with authorities had concluded. In its communication, the Centre instructed the company to hold back the rollout until discussions had been completed "to the satisfaction of the government".

The notice also sought an explanation from Meta on why proceedings should not be initiated under the Information Technology Act and the rules framed under it. As a significant social media intermediary, WhatsApp is required to comply with due diligence obligations laid down under India's digital regulations.

Following the government's intervention, WhatsApp informed authorities that it would not launch the username feature in India while consultations remained ongoing. The company also requested additional time to prepare its response, which has now been submitted and is under examination.

According to government sources, officials are not only evaluating Meta's explanation but are also exploring the possibility of introducing a common set of rules for username-based systems. While discussions remain at an early stage, the objective is understood to be creating a consistent regulatory approach rather than assessing individual features in isolation.

No decision has been taken on whether WhatsApp's proposal will eventually receive approval. The government is yet to announce its next steps after reviewing the company's submission, and Meta has not issued any public statement since filing its response.

The proposed feature has attracted attention because it represents a significant shift in how users could communicate on WhatsApp. Instead of exchanging phone numbers, people would be able to find and message one another through unique usernames. Although the change is designed to improve user privacy, Indian authorities have maintained that any such system must first address concerns around traceability, misuse and user safety before it can be introduced in the country.