WhatsApp Username Feature Faces 3-Day Deadline: Meta Meets MeitY, Final Decision Awaited

The rollout of WhatsApp's username feature in India has come under intense government scrutiny after a high-level meeting between Meta and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). According to sources, the Centre has given Meta three days to submit a comprehensive response addressing concerns over user safety, cyber fraud, and compliance with India's IT laws before any decision on the feature is taken.

The development marks a crucial stage in discussions over WhatsApp's planned username-based messaging system, which would allow users to connect without sharing their mobile numbers.

Meta and MeitY Hold Key Meeting

A team from Meta met senior MeitY officials on Friday to discuss the proposed WhatsApp username feature. During the meeting, government officials reportedly outlined multiple security concerns and sought detailed clarification on how Meta plans to safeguard users against misuse.

The Centre has now asked the company to submit its final written response within three days, after which it will review the proposal and decide the next course of action.

Government Raises Cybersecurity Concerns

The government's primary concern is that the username feature could be exploited for cybercrime if launched without adequate safeguards.

Officials fear it may facilitate:

Online fraud

Phishing attacks

Identity impersonation

"Digital arrest" scams

Other forms of cyber-enabled financial crime

According to officials, Meta must clearly demonstrate how the platform will prevent misuse before the feature is introduced in India.

Meta Asked Not to Roll Out Feature Yet

The Centre has instructed Meta not to implement the WhatsApp username feature in India until discussions with the government are completed and all security concerns have been satisfactorily addressed.

The government is closely monitoring the proposed rollout and wants stronger assurances regarding user protection.

Notice Issued Under IT Rules

Earlier, the Ministry issued an official notice to Meta seeking clarification on the feature.

The notice reportedly asks the company why action should not be considered under the Information Technology Act and applicable IT Rules if the new feature contributes to an increase in cybercrime or fails to meet due diligence requirements.

As a significant social media intermediary, Meta is legally required to ensure user safety and comply with India's digital governance framework.

What Is the WhatsApp Username Feature?

The upcoming feature is designed to allow users to communicate using a unique username instead of sharing their mobile number, offering an additional layer of privacy.

While Meta says the feature aims to improve privacy and reduce unnecessary sharing of phone numbers, the government believes stronger safeguards are necessary to prevent fake identities and impersonation.

Decision Expected Soon

With Meta expected to submit its detailed response within the next three days, the future of WhatsApp's username feature in India could become clearer shortly.

The outcome of the ongoing discussions will determine whether the feature can be rolled out as planned or whether additional security measures will be required before its launch.