The Central government has widened its review of messaging platforms’ username features by issuing notices to Telegram and Signal, following similar concerns raised with WhatsApp, according to a PTI report.
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has sought explanations from both Telegram and Signal on the measures they have put in place to address risks such as fraud, impersonation and other forms of online abuse linked to usernames. According to the report, the government has also asked Telegram to explain why it should be allowed to continue offering the username feature.
Review extended beyond WhatsApp
The move comes a day after the government directed Meta not to introduce WhatsApp usernames in India until consultations on the feature’s privacy and security implications are completed.
In a notice issued to Meta’s Chief Compliance Officer, the ministry sought a detailed response within three days and questioned whether the proposed feature could lead to an increase in cybercrime.
Also Read:Usernames On Hold: Govt Tells Meta To Explain WhatsApp Feature In 3 Days
The government’s latest action extends its review to Telegram and Signal, both of which already allow users to communicate using usernames instead of phone numbers.
Government cites fraud and impersonation concerns
Officials are concerned that usernames could make it easier for fraudsters to impersonate celebrities, public figures, government officials or trusted individuals. They fear that concealing phone numbers behind usernames could create fresh opportunities for phishing attacks, online fraud and the so-called “digital arrest” scams that have become increasingly common in recent years.
In its notice to WhatsApp, the government warned that the feature could enable cybercriminals to contact and deceive users more easily. Meta was also asked to explain why action should not be initiated under the Information Technology Act and related rules if the feature is found to increase cybercrime risks.
The ministry further reminded Meta that WhatsApp, as a significant social media intermediary, must comply with due diligence obligations under India’s IT regulations.
What are WhatsApp usernames?
WhatsApp recently enabled username reservations through its settings page, although the feature has not yet been officially launched.
Once introduced, users will be able to connect with others through a username instead of sharing their phone number, a system already available on Telegram and several other social media platforms.
The feature has sparked debate, with critics arguing that it could make impersonation easier, while supporters believe it would enhance user privacy by reducing the need to disclose personal phone numbers.
WhatsApp highlights built-in safeguards
WhatsApp has defended the proposed feature, saying it includes multiple safeguards designed to prevent scams and impersonation.
The company said usernames associated with public figures, celebrities, government organisations and Meta-verified accounts will be reserved so that only legitimate account holders can claim them. It also plans to display the country of origin when users receive messages from unknown contacts.
Additionally, WhatsApp has announced an optional “Username Key” feature that allows users to attach a unique four-digit code to their username. Under this system, only people with both the username and the code will be able to contact the user. The company has also clarified that there will be no searchable directory of usernames.
India is WhatsApp’s largest market, with more than 500 million users, giving it a significantly larger user base than Telegram in the country.
Experts divided over the feature
Cybersecurity experts and digital rights advocates remain divided on the proposed feature.
Some experts believe usernames could create new opportunities for impersonation and online scams, while others argue that WhatsApp’s proposed safeguards could significantly reduce misuse. Some cybersecurity specialists have also suggested that moving away from phone-number-based identification could help prevent SIM-swap fraud, where criminals hijack mobile numbers to gain access to bank accounts and digital services.
Meanwhile, the Internet Freedom Foundation (IFF) has questioned the legal basis of the government’s directive, arguing that existing laws do not authorise authorities to approve or block product features before they are launched. The organisation said concerns about fraud should be addressed by taking action against offenders rather than restricting technology features.
Telegram faces continued regulatory scrutiny
Telegram has also been under increased regulatory scrutiny in recent months over issues related to fraud, impersonation and the circulation of sensitive content.
The government had temporarily blocked Telegram and some of its associated web services until June 22 over allegations that the platform had failed to curb the spread of leaked and fake NEET examination papers, misleading information and other fraudulent content linked to the medical entrance examination. Services were restored after the temporary suspension ended.
-
-
-
-
