How protective is a username shield?

Meta argument that usernames for WhatsApp subscribers enhance privacy is rather weak. Hundreds of millions of Indian users have signed up for existing privacy available on WhatsApp, and there's little merit in offering them extra camouflage. It can only encourage bad actors. Acceptable levels of privacy are built into India's telecom laws, and offering a feature that reduces transparency is bound to go against GoI's comfort level. The official view on cybercrimes like fraud and impersonation will resonate among WhatsApp's subscribers despite assurances by the instant messaging (IM) app about safety features built around digital aliases. WhatsApp offers an alternative to the short messaging service baked into smartphones, and it would be difficult to justify disparate privacy standards.

Facebook and Instagram have similar IM services. But these are nowhere close to WhatsApp's popularity. The acceptance level is structured on the underlying authenticity of WhatsApp's subscriber base. It's easy to create Facebook and Insta accounts using dubious credentials. Usernames on WhatsApp could be a step towards single sign-on across Meta's social media platforms. This generates highly accurate user profiles, which command premium rates in the digital advertising market. WhatsApp does not have an established advertising revenue model and is seeking ways to monetise itself. Meta would gain from being able to track user behaviour across its platforms.

WhatsApp must be more sensitive to law enforcement concerns than, say, Telegram, which allows the level of anonymity WhatsApp is seeking. GoI tends to come down harder on the more opaque platform in threat situations. Telegram was blocked last month to prevent cheating in nationwide exams. WhatsApp's run-ins with GoI have been tamer. These are requests to take down offensive content. Messaging platforms earn their legal immunity through transparency. WhatsApp seems to be moving in the opposite direction with the username feature. It could harden lawmakers' resolve to police communication.