WhatsApp's reply to the government's notice regarding the introduction of a username feature is expected today, as confirmed by the IT Secretary. The feature aims to enable users on the messaging platform to communicate without revealing their phone numbers, enhancing privacy and security.
Background of the Notice
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology had issued a notice to WhatsApp seeking details about the username feature, including its implementation timeline and privacy safeguards. The IT Secretary stated that the government is closely monitoring the rollout to ensure compliance with India's data protection laws.
According to sources, the username feature will allow users to create a unique identifier, replacing the need to share phone numbers for initiating chats. This is expected to reduce spam and unsolicited messages.
Impact on User Privacy
Privacy advocates have welcomed the move, noting that it aligns with global trends toward pseudonymous communication. However, concerns remain about potential misuse and the handling of metadata. The government has emphasized that any new feature must adhere to the upcoming Digital Personal Data Protection Act.
An official statement from WhatsApp is anticipated later today, addressing the government's queries and outlining the feature's security protocols.
