WhatsApp delays username feature rollout in India amid govt review
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New Delhi: Meta-owned messaging platform WhatsApp has assured the Central government that it will not launch its proposed username feature in India until ongoing consultations with authorities are completed, according to sources familiar with the matter.
The government has also granted WhatsApp an additional three days to respond to its notice seeking clarification on the proposed feature after the original deadline expired on Friday.
The proposed update would allow users to communicate on WhatsApp using usernames instead of sharing their mobile phone numbers.
Last week, the Centre issued a formal notice to WhatsApp, expressing concerns that the feature could increase the risk of online fraud, phishing, impersonation and other cybercrimes. It asked the company to keep the rollout on hold until discussions on security and consumer protection issues are concluded.
As part of the consultations, a delegation from Meta met officials of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology on Friday to discuss the government's concerns.
Earlier this week, WhatsApp said the username feature has been designed with multiple safeguards to minimise the risk of impersonation, scams and unwanted contact ahead of its planned global rollout later this year.
Responding to questions on X after concerns were raised by users and the government, the company clarified that creating a username would be optional and not mandatory for users.
WhatsApp also said usernames already associated with Instagram and Facebook accounts, as well as those belonging to public figures, celebrities, government entities and Meta Verified accounts, have been reserved to ensure they can only be claimed by their legitimate owners.
The consultations between WhatsApp and the government are expected to continue before any decision is taken on introducing the feature in India.
With IANS inputs