The Indian government has currently banned the new Username feature of WhatsApp. Know what questions the government asked from Meta, what are the concerns regarding online fraud and cyber security and when can this feature be launched in India.
WhatsApp was preparing to launch a new Username feature soon, but the Indian government has currently banned it. The central government fears that if people will be able to communicate only through username instead of mobile number, it may lead to an increase in cases of online fraud and cyber crime. For this reason, the government has sought a detailed reply from Meta within three days.
Why is the government worried?
The government believes that username based chatting can make it easier for criminals to hide their real identity. By creating fake accounts, they can cheat people by using username like that of a bank, government organization or any other trusted person. The Center fears that this may lead to an increase in phishing, digital arrest, online fraud and cyber crimes committed by hiding identity. For this reason, the government has decided to stop the rollout of this feature for the time being.
What did the government ask from Meta?
The central government has asked Meta to clarify how this new feature of WhatsApp will comply with the IT Act 2000 and IT Rules 2021. Apart from this, the government has also asked that if the law enforcement agencies have to identify the person sending the message during the investigation of a criminal case, then how will his identity be made available in the Username system. The government has clearly said that until satisfactory answers are given to these questions, WhatsApp Username feature will not be launched in India.
What did WhatsApp say about the feature?
WhatsApp says that the purpose of the Username feature is to strengthen the privacy and security of users. According to the company, if a person repeatedly tries to send messages by guessing a username, he may be blocked. Besides, action will also be taken against accounts with fake identities.
The company also said that when a new person contacts for the first time through Username, WhatsApp will give the user information about whether the account is new or old, whether it is present in your contact list and whether you have any shared groups with it. Currently, the future of this feature in India will depend on the discussions between the government and Meta. If both the parties agree on security and legal aspects, then only Indian users will be able to get the new Username feature of WhatsApp.