WhatsApp has started allowing some users to reserve usernames before the feature becomes available to everyone later this year. The update is designed to improve privacy by letting users connect without sharing phone numbers. However, experts and regulators say it could also create new opportunities for online scams.
The new WhatsApp feature will let users communicate through unique usernames instead of phone numbers. This change is expected to make it easier to protect personal contact details while chatting with new people.
Meta says the feature is optional and aims to improve user privacy. However, security researchers believe scammers may try to create usernames that closely resemble those of public figures, banks, companies, and government organizations.
Concerns Over Fake Usernames
During early testing, several usernames similar to well-known personalities and institutions were reportedly available for reservation. These included names linked to Indian politicians, celebrities, major companies, and public agencies.
Such usernames could confuse users and increase the risk of impersonation. Fraudsters may use similar-looking usernames to trick people into sharing personal or financial information.
Cybersecurity experts warn that phishing attacks and identity scams could become more common if strong protections are not in place.
Meta Introduces Protection Measures
Meta says it has already reserved usernames belonging to public figures, government bodies, and certain organizations. The company says only verified owners will be able to claim these protected usernames.
However, Meta has not explained how it decides which similar usernames should also be restricted. This has raised questions about whether all possible impersonation attempts can be prevented.
The company also confirmed that usernames will not appear in a public searchable directory. Users will only be able to contact others if they already know the username.
India Requests Delay
India’s Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has reportedly asked Meta to pause the rollout of the new feature.
The ministry believes usernames could make online fraud more common. It warned that criminals may use fake identities to carry out phishing, impersonation, and financial scams.
Officials also expressed concern that users could pretend to represent banks, government departments, or other trusted organizations.
The ministry has reportedly asked Meta to explain how it plans to reduce these risks before the feature becomes widely available.
Privacy Benefits Remain
Despite the concerns, many security experts believe the feature offers important privacy advantages.
Users will no longer need to share their phone numbers with strangers. This can reduce the risk of spam calls, SIM-swapping attacks, and unwanted contact.
Experts recommend choosing unique usernames that are difficult to guess. This can make it harder for scammers and spammers to find users.
Cross-Platform Identity
Meta also plans to let users link their WhatsApp username with their Instagram and Facebook accounts.
This option will help creators, businesses, and organizations maintain the same identity across Meta’s platforms. It may also reduce the chances of impersonation.
Gradual Rollout Continues
Meta says the username feature is being released in stages. The company plans to collect user feedback before expanding the rollout later this year.
In other related news also read WhatsApp Launches Incognito Chat Feature Powered by Meta AI
The company says it wants to ensure the system works properly while improving both privacy and security. As the feature reaches more users, WhatsApp is expected to introduce additional safeguards to reduce misuse and protect users from impersonation scams.
