India has asked WhatsApp to pause the rollout of its upcoming username feature, citing concerns that it could be exploited by fraudsters and cybercriminals. The government has reportedly raised the issue with the messaging platform, warning that the new feature may create fresh opportunities for impersonation, scams, and identity-related fraud if introduced without adequate safeguards. Officials are particularly concerned that users may find it harder to verify the identity of people contacting them through usernames instead of phone numbers, increasing the risk of phishing attempts and financial scams.
The username feature is designed to let users connect without sharing their phone numbers, offering greater privacy and convenience. However, Indian authorities believe the change could also make it easier for scammers to conceal their identities and target unsuspecting users. The government has urged WhatsApp to strengthen verification mechanisms, improve user protection measures, and address security concerns before making the feature widely available.
India is one of WhatsApp’s largest markets, with hundreds of millions of users relying on the platform for personal and business communication. Given the country’s growing number of online fraud cases, authorities have been increasing scrutiny of digital platforms and encouraging stronger safeguards against cybercrime. The request to delay the feature reflects the government’s broader efforts to balance technological innovation with user safety. While WhatsApp has not announced any changes to its rollout plans, discussions between the company and Indian authorities are expected to continue as both sides explore ways to introduce the feature without compromising security or user trust.
