The Central Government has directed Meta-owned WhatsApp not to roll out its proposed username feature until consultations with authorities are completed. The company has also been asked to submit a detailed explanation on the feature within three days, according to a PTI report citing official sources.
The move comes amid growing concerns over the possibility of impersonation, spoofing and financial fraud if users are allowed to communicate through usernames instead of phone numbers.
Government sources said authorities are closely examining the legal implications of the proposed feature and may explore legal options, including issuing formal notices or taking steps to block the rollout if it is found to pose significant security risks.
WhatsApp recently announced plans to introduce usernames, allowing users to connect without sharing their mobile numbers. The feature is aimed at enhancing user privacy, particularly in group chats and when interacting with new contacts.
However, cybersecurity experts and legal professionals have warned that the shift from phone number-based identities to platform-managed usernames could weaken existing identity verification mechanisms.
The concerns gained further attention after MobiKwik CEO Bipin Preet Singh said that several variations of his name had already been reserved during the early username reservation phase, raising fears of impersonation.
Government officials are particularly concerned that fraudsters could create usernames resembling those of public figures, businesses or trusted individuals, potentially misleading users and facilitating scams.
According to officials, law enforcement agencies are also expected to examine the proposed feature and its potential impact on cybercrime and digital fraud.
Faisal Kawoosa, founder and chief analyst at Techarc, said phone numbers currently provide a basic level of identity verification, whereas usernames can be manipulated more easily.
He cautioned that even if celebrity names are reserved, fraudsters can create similar-looking usernames that ordinary users may not easily distinguish, increasing the risk of impersonation.
Experts have suggested that WhatsApp should internally link usernames with verified phone numbers and introduce stronger identity verification systems to minimise misuse.
Several Indian startup founders and public figures have also voiced concerns on social media, warning that lookalike usernames could become a major avenue for scams if adequate safeguards are not implemented.
The username reservation system is currently in the testing phase, and WhatsApp has not yet announced a timeline for its wider rollout.
