New Delhi, July 7: The Central Government has granted WhatsApp an additional three days to respond to its notice regarding the messaging platform’s proposed username feature, which would allow users to connect without sharing their mobile phone numbers.
The extension comes after the Meta-owned messaging service requested more time to submit its response to the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). WhatsApp has also assured the government that the feature will not be introduced in India until discussions with the authorities are completed.
Government Raises Cybersecurity Concerns
The government has expressed concerns that the proposed username system could create new opportunities for cybercriminals by making it easier to carry out online fraud, phishing attacks, identity impersonation and other digital scams.
Officials have asked the company to explain how the feature would prevent misuse and why regulatory action should not be considered under the provisions of the Information Technology Act and related rules.
Authorities believe any change that allows users to communicate without revealing their phone numbers must include strong safeguards to protect consumers from emerging cyber threats.
WhatsApp Delays India Rollout
WhatsApp has informed the government that the username feature remains under development and is expected to be introduced gradually later this year. However, the company confirmed that the rollout in India will remain on hold until consultations with the government are completed.
The messaging platform emphasized that users will still be required to register using a valid mobile phone number, even if they later choose to communicate through a unique username.
Company Highlights Built-in Safety Measures
To address security concerns, WhatsApp said it is designing multiple protection mechanisms aimed at reducing misuse of the feature.
According to the company, usernames belonging to public personalities, government organizations and verified Meta accounts will be protected to prevent impersonation. The platform also plans to introduce restrictions on unsolicited messages, limit repeated attempts to guess usernames and deploy systems capable of identifying suspicious activity.
These measures are intended to strengthen user safety while preserving privacy for individuals who prefer not to share their personal phone numbers.
Discussions Continue
The government’s decision to extend the response deadline indicates that discussions between regulators and WhatsApp are still ongoing. Officials are expected to closely evaluate the company’s proposed safeguards before deciding whether the feature can be introduced in the Indian market.
With cyber fraud and online scams continuing to rise, authorities are placing greater emphasis on ensuring that new digital features include robust security and consumer protection measures before they are made available to users.
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