Meta-owned WhatsApp has submitted its response to the Centre’s notice over its proposed username feature, with the government currently examining the company’s explanation before taking a call on the feature’s rollout in India.
The proposed feature would allow users to communicate using unique usernames instead of sharing their phone numbers. While the functionality is intended to enhance privacy, the government has argued that it could make it easier for malicious actors to impersonate legitimate users or conceal their identities during cybercrime.
Also read: Govt Asks WhatsApp To Put Username Feature On Hold; Platform Says Rollout Is Yet To Begin
As suggested by media reports, WhatsApp’s response was received on Thursday night and is under examination. In its reply, WhatsApp is understood to have reiterated that the username feature has not yet been launched and outlined safeguards designed to prevent misuse. The company has also maintained that phone numbers will continue to be required as part of the account registration process.
Earlier this week, the Centre had granted WhatsApp additional time until July 9 to respond to the notice after the company sought an extension and assured the government that it would not roll out the feature in India until discussions concluded. A Meta delegation had also met MeitY officials following the issuance of the notice.
The scrutiny forms part of the government’s broader examination of username-based messaging features across platforms. Similar notices have also been issued to Telegram and Signal, with authorities seeking to assess whether such features could facilitate cybercrime while balancing user privacy and platform security.
