WhatsApp, Telegram reply to MeitY notices on upcoming username feature: What we know

WhatsApp, Telegram Reply to MeitY on Username Feature: Key Insights

Theindiapostdaily.com – In response to a directive from the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), WhatsApp and Telegram have submitted their replies to the government’s inquiry about the upcoming username feature. The responses have been acknowledged by officials and are now under review, as the Central government sought clarification on how the feature might affect digital security and user privacy. This move comes after MeitY issued a notice to Meta, the parent company of WhatsApp, raising concerns about potential risks such as fraud, phishing, and impersonation attacks linked to the username system.

Deadline and Extension

The initial deadline for platforms to respond to MeitY’s inquiry was set for Thursday, but WhatsApp received a four-day extension after requesting more time during a meeting with officials on 2 July. This extension allowed the company to refine its arguments, emphasizing its commitment to addressing regulatory concerns. Meanwhile, Telegram also provided its response to the ministry’s notice, showcasing its own measures to mitigate risks associated with usernames. The extension highlights the Ministry’s willingness to engage in a thorough discussion with tech companies before making final decisions.

Meta’s Safeguards

“We will ban accounts or revoke usernames when we find evidence of identity impersonation or scam,”

stated a Meta representative in response to MeitY’s concerns. The company has outlined several safeguards, including the reservation of existing Facebook and Instagram usernames for their original users during a specified period. Additionally, usernames tied to public figures, government agencies, and verified Meta accounts will be protected from unauthorized duplication. These measures aim to reduce the likelihood of misuse while allowing users to claim preferred identifiers.

Feature Details

WhatsApp introduced the username feature in a detailed blog post, explaining that users will be able to choose their preferred identifier before the feature becomes fully operational later this year. The decision to roll out usernames early is attributed to the platform’s vast user base, which includes over three billion individuals, often leading to confusion with phone numbers. By enabling usernames, WhatsApp seeks to simplify direct communication and enhance user experience, as reported by PTI. However, the feature’s launch has sparked regulatory scrutiny, particularly regarding its impact on digital security.

Government’s Directive

MeitY has mandated that WhatsApp, as a major social media intermediary, must comply with due diligence requirements under India’s Information Technology Act. The ministry is concerned that the username feature could increase opportunities for cybercrime, such as impersonating verified accounts or engaging in fraudulent activities. A notice was issued summoning Meta officials, prompting a discussion on how to balance user convenience with security protocols. WhatsApp clarified that the username feature is not yet active and will be implemented gradually to allow for monitoring and adjustments.

Security Measures

“Other users need to know the exact username to message you. We will limit how many new people an account can contact, block repeated attempts to guess someone’s username key, and have systems to detect and remove activity showing common impersonation and abuse patterns,”

added the company. These measures are designed to provide users with additional verification tools, such as account status, contact history, shared groups, and geographic location data, to make informed decisions about communication. The safeguards aim to address MeitY’s concerns while ensuring the feature remains user-friendly. This proactive approach underscores WhatsApp’s commitment to aligning with regulatory expectations.

Broader Implications

The broader implications of MeitY’s notice extend beyond WhatsApp, as the ministry has also requested information from Telegram and Signal about their username systems. This indicates a growing regulatory focus on digital communication platforms and their responsibility to prevent online fraud. The responses from WhatsApp and Telegram are part of a larger effort to ensure compliance with India’s data protection and intermediary guidelines. By addressing these concerns, the companies aim to strengthen trust with users and regulators alike, while preparing for potential future changes to the feature.