Government Directs WhatsApp to Pause Username Feature Rollout in India Amid Security Concerns
The Centre has directed WhatsApp to temporarily halt the rollout of its proposed username feature in India, asking the platform to provide a detailed explanation within three days over concerns related to user safety, impersonation and cyber fraud.
02 July, 2026 | New Delhi
The Central government has asked WhatsApp to put its planned username feature on hold in India while officials examine its potential impact on digital security and online fraud. The directive comes as authorities seek greater clarity on how the feature will function and what safeguards will be implemented to protect users.
According to government officials, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has issued a formal notice directing the platform to submit a comprehensive explanation of the feature within three days. Until consultations are completed to the government’s satisfaction, WhatsApp has been instructed not to launch the feature for Indian users.
The proposed update would allow users to create unique usernames, enabling communication without sharing their mobile numbers with first-time contacts. While the feature is intended to enhance user privacy, authorities have raised concerns that it could also increase the risk of impersonation, phishing attacks, identity spoofing and other cyber-enabled frauds if adequate safeguards are not in place.
Government officials have emphasised that digital platforms operating in India must ensure that new features do not compromise public safety or create opportunities for cybercriminals. The authorities are reviewing the technical and security aspects of the username system before permitting its rollout.
WhatsApp has maintained that the username feature has been designed with privacy and security protections. However, the company has been asked to explain its verification process, anti-impersonation measures and mechanisms for preventing misuse before the feature is introduced in the country.
The move highlights the government’s growing scrutiny of new digital platform features, particularly those that could affect user privacy, cybersecurity and online trust. Discussions between the authorities and the company are expected to continue before a final decision is taken on the rollout in India.
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