Meta issues clarification over WhatsApp's new username feature amid scrutiny, privacy concerns
PTC News Desk: Meta-owned WhatsApp has released a detailed FAQ explaining how its upcoming username feature will work, as the Indian government seeks answers over concerns that it could increase impersonation, phishing, online fraud and "digital arrest" scams.
WhatsApp said the username feature will be completely optional and has built-in safeguards to prevent misuse, especially for public figures, government organisations and Meta Verified users.
Username reservations are here, as more and more people claim theirs, here’s answers to the top questions you’re asking ⬇️
Q: Are usernames mandatory?
A: Nope, they are optional.
Q: What if the username I want isn’t available?
A: There’s a few reasons you might not be able to… — WhatsApp (@WhatsApp) July 1, 2026
The clarification comes a day after the government sent a notice to Meta, asking why action should not be taken under the Information Technology Act and related rules. The Centre has also asked the company not to launch the feature in India until discussions are completed and has sought a detailed response within three days.
According to WhatsApp, users will not be required to create a username and can continue using the app with their phone number-based accounts. The company also said usernames will not be searchable like they are on platforms such as Instagram or Telegram, reducing the chances of strangers contacting users.
WhatsApp explained that just as people cannot search for phone numbers on the platform, they will not be able to search for usernames either. Users can choose a unique username and add an optional "username key" for extra privacy.
If enabled, the username key will ensure that only people who know both the username and the security key can contact the user. The key can also be changed at any time.
To improve safety, WhatsApp will show extra information when a user receives a message from someone they have never interacted with. This will include:
The sender's country.
Whether the account is newly created.
Whether the sender and recipient share any common groups.
Users will also continue to have access to existing safety tools such as blocking and reporting unknown contacts.
Addressing concerns about impersonation, WhatsApp said well-known usernames and their variations will be reserved for genuine public figures, government organisations and Meta Verified accounts. The company rejected claims that anyone could claim popular usernames, saying only legitimate account owners will be able to reserve protected names.
- With inputs from agencies
