# Messaging app user privacy trends

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/messaging-app-user-privacy-trends
> Updated: 2026-10-18T09:01:10.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2.

Users of messaging platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram are increasingly adopting secondary numbers to protect personal data security. This trend is driven by a desire to minimize risks from spam and unwanted calls.

For entrepreneurs and freelancers working in international markets, utilizing numbers with different country codes allows for the establishment of corporate identities on WhatsApp Business without requiring physical SIM cards or long-term contracts. Services are being used to facilitate instant SMS verification for quick account activation and secure communication management.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-18: Users adopt secondary numbers to protect privacy on messaging apps

Users are increasingly utilizing secondary numbers and SMS verification services to protect personal privacy and manage business communications on platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/users-adopt-secondary-numbers-to-protect-privacy-on-messaging-apps

### 2026-10-13: WhatsApp introduces usernames to enhance user privacy

WhatsApp is rolling out an optional username feature that allows users to communicate without sharing their phone numbers, enhancing privacy for its global user base.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/whatsapp-introduces-usernames-to-enhance-user-privacy-2

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Cite as: Messaging app user privacy trends. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/messaging-app-user-privacy-trends