WhatsApp rolls out usernames, making sharing numbers optional, feature under govt. scrutiny

WhatsApp has begun to roll out unique usernames, which will give users the ability to block a unique handle for themselves on the app. This is in line with the functioning of Instagram and X, with a notable difference being that WhatsApp is still not a public social media network. Hence, unlike other Meta apps where one can find usernames through an autocomplete search, one cannot find a user’s handle unless they know the exact username.

Additionally, a further, optional security layer has been rolled out along with this update, called a “username key.” Users can set it up such that even if someone (who is not a contact) knows a username, they still cannot begin to chat with the user without this username key. Users can choose between claiming Instagram or X usernames on WhatsApp (subject to availability and linking their accounts to Meta Accounts Centre), or maintaining a unique username only for WhatsApp.

Usernames can be reserved by existing users by navigating to Settings -> Account -> Username, which is where username key settings are also located. Note that an updated version of the app is necessary for this.

Potential benefits for users:

• Reduced exposure of phone numbers: since phone numbers will not need to be shared as frequently, it can reduce the chances of their misuse, such as ending up in spam call databases or being added to random groups.
• Preventing people outside users’ networks from contacting them: by enabling username keys, someone wishing to begin a new chat with a user must know both their exact username as well as their username key.
• Ability to sync handles across platforms: users who desire to have a consistent handle across platforms are now given the ability to do so on WhatsApp as well, in line with other Meta platforms like Instagram and X.

However, this system is still not foolproof when it comes to scams and abuse. While restricting access to phone numbers solves for some existing pain points, the username system opens the door for other abuse such as lookalike handles, copied profile pictures, accounts attempting to impersonate popular figures or business and so on. While handles of celebrities, government personnel and other popular figures are to be reserved and systems are to be put in place to track attempts to make lookalike handles, the IT Ministry of India has asked Meta to provide them with a detailed explanation on the rollout of usernames within 3 days. This was after a statement that platforms will be held responsible if feature rollouts create room for fraud.

Users should watch out for:

• Possible unavailability of exact names: since each username must be unique, common names will likely be reserved quickly. Hence, it is important for users who desire a specific handle to reserve theirs quickly.
• New forms of impersonation: fraudsters evolve fast, and this new username system is unfortunately not watertight when it comes to malicious activity. Users must be careful of copied profile pictures and lookalike handles and make sure to verify the identity of unknown accounts before engaging with them.

Impact on businesses:

Businesses using WhatsApp for customer communication may find it easier to maintain authenticity and credibility if WhatsApp’s impersonation safeguards prove effective. On the flip side, if there are vulnerabilities to impersonation, this could hurt individual businesses due to misrepresentation and would necessitate the bolstering of security protocols to avoid inadvertent leaks of confidential data to scam attempts. In an environment of unfamiliarity, caution and close monitoring can prove useful in preventing such incidents from occurring.