India challenges WhatsApp usernames, raising privacy concerns

The Indian government has objected to WhatsApp's global rollout of a username feature that lets users chat without revealing phone numbers. Officials argue that pseudonymous accounts could facilitate impersonation, scams, and financial fraud, and have asked WhatsApp, Telegram and Signal to explain the feature by July 9. WhatsApp has submitted a written response that is under review.

India, with more than 850 million WhatsApp users, relies on the app for messaging, banking, ticketing and shopping. Critics warn that forcing the removal or modification of the feature could set a precedent, prompting other nations to demand similar changes and potentially stifling innovation. Experts note the slippery‑slope risk, while civil‑rights groups argue that usernames can protect vulnerable users from harassment and political retaliation.