Centre Gives WhatsApp More Time, Extends Username Issue Response Deadline to July 9
Meta has until July 9 to reply to concerns raised by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology regarding WhatsApp’s proposed username feature. The functionality could increase risks of impersonation, phishing, fraud and identity spoofing.
Reportedly, Meta has been given an additional three days by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology to respond to the contentious matter surrounding WhatsApp usernames. According to a government spokesman, the revised date is now July 9. Concerned about WhatsApp's new username function, government officials had earlier asked for an answer by July 6.
The government reportedly requested a thorough explanation of the feature, prompting Meta to receive this warning. Meta was previously told by the government not to launch the functionality in India until discussions on the subject are finished.
Why Govt. is Concerned with WhatApp’s Move?
The new username function of WhatsApp has the potential to make impersonation, fraud, and online frauds easier, according to the ministry. After the function is enabled, the recipient's phone number will not be shown to first-time contacts. An extra control called a "username key" can be established, according to the ministry's announcement.
The function could potentially make online fraud, phishing, digital arrest frauds, and impersonation assaults more common since it allows criminal actors to message and solicit victims, according to a notice from the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, which was published on July 1. According to the ministry, this feature could make it easier for people to adopt identities that look a lot like real people's or organisations', which could lead to impersonation and identity spoofing. This could happen with individuals, public bodies, banks, and even government agencies.
Other Loaded Characteristics of the New Feature
Users must ensure they are using the most recent version of WhatsApp in order to secure a username. Users can find the choice under the newly introduced "Username" section of the Settings menu, which is located under Account. Users can also take advantage of the app's built-in recommendation engine to find a free and distinctive handle. Due to the app's massive user base, WhatsApp is offering early reservations to those who want a greater chance of getting their preferred usernames before the broader public can use them.
In addition, the business is working on a feature that will let select WhatsApp users link their username with their Instagram or Facebook account. Thus, assisting users in upholding a uniform online persona. WhatsApp has stated categorically that it will not launch a public database of user IDs. Rather, in order to initiate a chat, users will be required to know the precise username. A username key, an additional security parameter, will also be offered so users may manage who can message them.
