Centre weighs Meta reply on WA usernames, rollout remains on hold
Meta has responded to the Indian government's concerns regarding WhatsApp's proposed username feature, which would allow users to interact without sharing phone numbers. The Indian Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology is currently reviewing the proposal for potential risks related to impersonation and fraud.
Why it matters
This highlights the regulatory friction between global tech platforms and national governments regarding user privacy, security, and the prevention of digital scams.
NEW DELHI: Meta has submitted its response to the Centre's concerns over WhatsApp's proposed "username" feature, with the ministry of electronics and information technology examining whether the safeguards outlined by the company are adequate to prevent impersonation, phishing and online fraud.Sources said WhatsApp's reply was received late Thursday night following consultations between Meta representatives and MeitY officials. The ministry had earlier directed the company not to introduce the feature in India until the consultation process was completed.
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