New Delhi: The WhatsApp Username Feature has received temporary relief after the Central Government granted Meta three additional days to submit a detailed response. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has now asked the company to present its official reply by July 9.
According to reports, the ministry wants more clarity on the proposed feature before it moves forward.
What Is the WhatsApp Username Feature?
The WhatsApp Username Feature will allow users to connect with others without sharing their mobile numbers. Instead, users can communicate through a unique username, such as @Rahul123.
Meta says the feature aims to strengthen user privacy. As a result, people will have greater control over who can view their phone numbers while chatting on the platform.
Government Raises Security Concerns
However, the Central Government has expressed concerns about the proposed feature.
Officials believe that hiding phone numbers could make it harder for security agencies to identify cybercriminals, online fraudsters, and people spreading fake information.
Therefore, MeitY has asked WhatsApp to explain how it plans to prevent misuse while protecting user privacy.
Government Seeks Detailed Safeguards
The ministry has requested detailed information on several important issues.
These include user verification, measures to stop misuse, and the company’s cooperation with law enforcement agencies.
In addition, the government wants to understand how WhatsApp will maintain accountability if users communicate only through usernames.
Meta Gets Time Until July 9
Initially, the government had asked WhatsApp to respond quickly. However, it has now extended the deadline by three days.
Meta will submit its detailed response by July 9. Meanwhile, both technology experts and users are closely watching the outcome.
The company’s explanation is expected to clarify how the WhatsApp Username Feature can protect user privacy while addressing national security concerns.
Privacy and Security Remain the Key Focus
The proposed feature could become one of WhatsApp’s biggest privacy updates. At the same time, it has also raised questions about digital safety and online accountability.
Overall, the WhatsApp Username Feature highlights the challenge of balancing stronger user privacy with effective law enforcement. Ultimately, the government’s review and Meta’s response will determine the next step for the feature in India.
Key Highlights of the news:
- The Centre has given WhatsApp three more days to submit details on its Username Feature.
- Meta can now respond to the government by July 9.
- The feature will allow users to chat using a username instead of sharing their mobile number.
- The government has sought details on verification, misuse prevention, and cooperation with law enforcement.
- Authorities want to ensure the feature balances user privacy and national security.
