Centre examining legal implications, possible clauses over WhatsApp, Telegram 'username' feature: Sources

New Delhi: The Central Government is examining legal implications and possible clauses to invoke sanctions on WhatsApp and Telegram, after the intermediaries submitted their replies to the Centre's notices on the 'username' feature, sources stated.

According to sources, a formal notification from the government is expected.

Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has sent a notice to Meta seeking a detailed explanation of the proposed 'username' feature in WhatsApp. The government had also asked the company to put the rollout of the feature in India on hold until consultations are completed amid privacy and safety concerns.


Also read: After WhatsApp, Telegram submits reply on username feature notice; both submissions being examined

Amid widening scrutiny of the 'username' feature, the Centre also sent a notice to Telegram after Meta.

Earlier in July, the representatives of Meta met MeitY officials to discuss the government's concerns over the feature, sources said. During the meeting, ministry officials conveyed concerns related to privacy, safety and the possibility of misuse.

The proposed "usernames" feature has raised concerns among internet users and cybersecurity experts, who fear it could enable impersonation by allowing cybercriminals to create usernames resembling those of individuals, organisations or government officials, thereby increasing the risk of fraud.

According to Meta, the username is an optional and unique identifier that users can choose for their WhatsApp account. Beginning with the "@" symbol, it allows users to receive messages or calls without sharing their phone number.

The company said usernames are different from display names, which appear on user profiles and are not required to be unique. Usernames, however, are unique to each account.

Meta also said that users who do not have a person's phone number saved will see the username by default during direct messages, calls and group chats. It added that certain usernames will be reserved for businesses, governments and public figures and cannot be claimed by others.