Meta-supported messaging platform WhatsApp has clarified that its upcoming username feature will be voluntary. The platform emphasized the inclusion of multiple safeguards to prevent impersonation, scams, and unwanted contacts as it gears up for a broader release later this year. Addressing concerns raised on X, WhatsApp highlighted that users will not be compelled to create a username. Existing Instagram and Facebook usernames, as well as those of public figures, celebrities, government entities, and Meta Verified accounts, have already been reserved for their rightful owners.
The company debunked online claims suggesting that popular usernames could be reserved by anyone. It assured that only legitimate owners would have the ability to claim well-known public figure names and their variations. When the feature is launched later this year, users will not yet have access to usernames for messaging. Instead, they will be provided with information such as the sender’s country, account age, and shared groups to help them decide on responding to messages from unknown users.
Furthermore, WhatsApp clarified that usernames cannot be searched like phone numbers. Users can opt for an additional ‘username key’ for enhanced security, requiring both the username and the key for initiating contact. Earlier, the government instructed WhatsApp, led by Kunal Shah, to elucidate the username feature within three days and refrain from launching it until consultations with the government were finalized. The Centre also sought a detailed explanation from Meta regarding the new feature and mandated a response within three days. Additionally, the government urged Meta not to introduce the ‘usernames’ feature in India until consultations on the matter were concluded.
