Meta-owned WhatsApp has stated that the feature is designed to enhance user privacy by protecting phone numbers. The company noted that its current system allows any individual or business with access to a user’s phone number to initiate contact. With the introduction of usernames, WhatsApp aims to enable its more than three billion users worldwide to connect without necessarily sharing their phone numbers.
However, the proposed system has triggered widespread concern over potential misuse. Critics argue that replacing phone numbers with usernames could weaken accountability and create new opportunities for cyber fraud, with some drawing comparisons to the Telegram platform.
KnotDating Chief Executive Officer Jasveer Singh, commenting on X, said that phone numbers previously ensured accountability because users could clearly identify who was contacting them and report them to authorities if necessary. He added that while usernames enhance privacy, they may reduce accountability, which benefits scammers.
Another social media user warned that law enforcement investigations could become more complex if platforms rely on usernames rather than phone numbers for user identification. The user also cited Telegram, noting that it has frequently been associated with cybercrime investigations, including the alleged leak of the NEET-UG medical entrance examination question paper conducted on May 3.
Entrepreneur and content creator Ankur Warikoo also expressed concern over impersonation risks. He stated that fraudsters could create usernames resembling those of public figures to mislead users into transferring money or joining fraudulent groups. He warned that in India, such risks could become severe if adequate anti-abuse systems are not implemented by WhatsApp. He cited examples such as “wariko” or “awariko,” which could be used to imitate his identity, noting his prior legal dispute with Meta involving artificial intelligence-generated scam advertisements that misused his likeness.
Paytm founder Vijay Shekhar Sharma also indicated possible risks related to impersonation, stating that verified usernames may soon be introduced, alongside unverified usernames that closely resemble legitimate ones, potentially creating confusion and exploitation opportunities.
According to WhatsApp, usernames will be between three and thirty-five characters in length. Users will need to know a person’s username to initiate contact for the first time. Additionally, users will be able to set a username key, which will regulate who can reach them, with first-time messages through usernames requiring this key as an added security layer.
The development has intensified scrutiny over the balance between privacy and security, as authorities and stakeholders assess whether the new system could reshape digital communication while also creating new vulnerabilities for online abuse and fraud.
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