Policy · 1h ago
India warns WhatsApp username rollout could boost cybercrime
India's government has urged WhatsApp to pause its username feature rollout, citing potential for increased cybercrimes and impersonation. Meta counters that impersonation is not a significant issue. The feature, currently in testing, allows users to hide their phone numbers behind unique usernames.
Meridian48 take
India's concern is valid: usernames can make it harder to trace bad actors, but Meta's track record on moderation suggests the risk may be overstated.
Read the full reporting
WhatsApp should freeze username rollout as it could ‘increase cybercrimes’, says India — but Meta claims impersonation isn’t an issue →
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