WhatsApp and Telegram have responded to notices issued by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) regarding their username-based messaging features, as the government examines the potential risks associated with the rollout.

An official quoted by Hindustan Times confirmed on Thursday that MeitY had received WhatsApp’s response before the extended deadline. However, the contents of the company’s reply were not disclosed.

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WhatsApp was given four extra days to submit its response after requesting additional time during a meeting with ministry officials on July 2. According to people familiar with the matter, Telegram also submitted its response on Thursday.

MeitY raises concerns over user safety

The Ministry had sent a notice to WhatsApp on July 1, followed by similar notices to Telegram and Signal on July 3.

WhatsApp explains username feature safeguards to MeitY | X/@WhatsApp
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The government sought explanations from the platforms over the security measures built into their username features. Officials have expressed concerns that allowing users to connect through usernames instead of phone numbers could increase the risk of impersonation, identity theft, phishing attempts and other forms of digital fraud.

The platforms were asked to explain the safeguards they have put in place to prevent misuse and protect users.

Meta outlines anti-fraud measures

Responding to queries from Hindustan Times, a Meta spokesperson shared details of the protections the company plans to implement alongside WhatsApp’s upcoming username feature.

“We’ll ban accounts or revoke usernames when we find evidence of identity impersonation or scam,” the spokesperson said.

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Meta also said usernames already associated with Facebook and Instagram accounts would be reserved for their existing owners during the reservation period. In addition, usernames linked to public figures, government organisations, celebrities and verified Meta accounts, along with certain similar-looking variations, would only be made available to their legitimate owners.

The government has not yet made public its assessment of the responses submitted by WhatsApp and Telegram. The notices are part of MeitY’s ongoing scrutiny of new digital features that could have implications for online safety and fraud prevention.

FAQs:

Why did MeitY send notices to WhatsApp and Telegram?

The Ministry sought details on safeguards against impersonation, phishing, identity theft and digital fraud.

What did Meta say about WhatsApp’s username feature?

Meta said it will ban accounts or revoke usernames linked to impersonation or scams.