Meta Platforms has defended its introduction of usernames on WhatsApp, which the Indian government has criticized for potentially escalating cybercrime risks. A spokesperson emphasized that users will still need a phone number to access the platform and that multiple protective measures are in place, such as limiting contact attempts and detecting impersonation patterns.
The rollout of the username feature, described by Meta as a significant privacy enhancement, is set to occur gradually later this year. However, the Indian government has expressed concerns that this feature could facilitate online fraud and has demanded a detailed explanation from WhatsApp within three days, threatening regulatory action if its concerns are not addressed.
The rise in cybercrime in India, which saw incidents double to nearly 2.3 million in 2024, underscores the urgency of these concerns. Experts note that WhatsApp's extensive user base in India makes it a target for scams, and the new feature could exacerbate the spread of misinformation. Meta has stated it will reserve high-profile usernames for legitimate owners to mitigate impersonation risks.
This situation reflects a broader trend where governments are increasingly holding digital platforms accountable for user safety, balancing the need for privacy with the imperative of security