In India, the government has ordered Meta to give a thorough explanation within three days and has asked the firm not to activate WhatsApp’s intended username feature until negotiations with the government are finished. As a result, the function’s rollout has been delayed.
In particular, the possible effects on digital fraud, user safety, and cyber security are being thoroughly investigated by the government, according to official sources.
In a move reminiscent of popular social media sites, the planned functionality would let WhatsApp users converse using distinct usernames rather than mobile phone numbers. According to Meta, the function’s goal is to make users’ connections more private by letting them utilise usernames instead of actual phone numbers.
The Centre is worried, however, that without strong verification and anti-abuse measures, the function can facilitate online fraud and impersonation.
Information gathered from government sources suggests that messaging platforms could face consequences if their newly implemented capabilities enable fraud, impersonation, or the dissemination of false information.
Platforms like WhatsApp, according to officials, need to take extra precautions to prevent hackers from abusing their services. This is especially true in a nation like India, where internet banking and phone calls are already standard fare.
Current Indian legislation necessitating the linking of messaging platforms with verified cellphone numbers are also considered in the government’s study. In an effort to better verify digital identities and fight cyber fraud, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has imposed stringent SIM-binding criteria under the Telecom Cyber Security Rules, 2024.
Although Telegram and Signal have always provided username-based communication, it seems like the Centre is looking at whether WhatsApp’s significantly bigger user base in India could pose extra problems when it comes to preventing misuse.
Another worry voiced by cybersecurity experts is the possibility of fraudulent accounts impersonating well-known brands, celebrities, or government agencies in order to trick unsuspecting consumers.
Similar worries were voiced by entrepreneur Ankur Warikoo, who cautioned that this issue might escalate in India unless WhatsApp implemented robust anti-abuse measures prior to its introduction.
Meta has been mum on any updates to its rollout plans or responses to the government’s warning.
New features of digital platforms are being more aggressively regulated by the government, which could have an impact on online identity verification, cyber security, and consumer protection.
Image – HT
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