India’s ministry of information and technology has directed Meta’s WhatsApp to explain why regulatory action should not be initiated over its planned usernames feature. The ministry has also asked WhatsApp not to roll out the feature in the country until consultations are complete.
The IT ministry expressed concerns that the feature could increase online fraud, phishing, and impersonation attacks by allowing bad actors to contact victims without disclosing their phone numbers. The ministry also noted that usernames resembling those of individuals, financial institutions, or government agencies could facilitate identity spoofing and impersonation.
A Meta spokesperson stated that the feature is not yet live and that the company has reserved usernames for public figures, government entities, and verified Meta accounts to help prevent impersonation.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
