WhatsApp defends "usernames" feature as government issues notice

WhatsApp is defending its upcoming 'usernames' feature, a day after the Indian government issued a notice seeking clarification on the rollout. The messaging giant stated the feature is designed to enhance user privacy by allowing people to connect without sharing their phone numbers.

The government's notice, issued by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, reportedly raised concerns about the potential implications of the username feature on user privacy and security. This move reflects ongoing scrutiny of social media platforms and their data handling practices by regulatory bodies.

WhatsApp maintains that the username functionality is intended to provide users with greater control over their personal information. The company emphasized that the feature aims to allow for more private communication, moving away from the traditional reliance on phone numbers for contact within the app. The defense comes as the platform navigates regulatory expectations while introducing new functionalities.

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The username feature is designed to enhance user privacy.