Government Expands Scrutiny to Telegram and Signal Over Username Feature
After sending a notice to WhatsApp, the IT Ministry has now issued notices to Telegram and Signal, questioning their existing username feature and demanding explanations on how these platforms address concerns related to fraud and impersonation, according to sources.
Sources said that in the notice to Telegram, the government has asked the platform why it should be allowed to retain the username feature. The widening of scrutiny indicates the government's growing concern over potential misuse of username functionalities across messaging platforms.
WhatsApp Notice and Government Concerns
On Wednesday, the Centre issued a notice to Meta over the proposed username feature on WhatsApp, citing concerns that it could materially increase online fraud, phishing, digital arrest scams, and impersonation attacks. The government directed WhatsApp to pause the feature until consultations on the issue are completed "to the satisfaction of the government."
In its notice to WhatsApp, the government expressed concern that the proposed username feature may "materially increase" cases of online fraud, phishing, digital arrest scams, and impersonation attacks by enabling bad actors to solicit and message victims. Meta was asked to explain why action shouldn't be initiated under the IT Act and rules over WhatsApp's new feature that may increase cybercrimes. The Centre also reminded Meta that WhatsApp, as a significant social media intermediary, was bound by due diligence obligations under the IT Act and rules.
Telegram and Signal Under Lens
Sources told PTI that the IT ministry has written to Telegram and Signal, which already have the username feature, and asked how concerns around fraud and impersonation are being addressed by them. India is WhatsApp's largest market, with more than 500 million users, giving it a far bigger user base than Telegram.
Over the past month, Telegram came under the regulatory lens in India over concerns related to fraud, impersonation, and circulation of sensitive content. The Indian government had imposed a ban on Telegram and its associated web services until June 22, citing the platform's failure to curb the circulation of leaked and fake National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) examination papers, misleading content, and other fraudulent activities linked to the country's medical entrance examination process. The instant messaging platform returned to service in India after a week-long government ban expired.
WhatsApp Defends Feature
WhatsApp, in a statement on Wednesday, defended the feature, citing built-in safeguards to prevent scams and impersonations and protect users. The company emphasized that user safety is a priority and that the feature includes measures to mitigate risks.
The government's actions signal a broader crackdown on messaging platforms to ensure compliance with cybersecurity and anti-fraud measures. The IT Ministry continues to engage with platforms to address concerns that could impact millions of users in India.
