How would you feel about chatting on WhatsApp without sharing your phone number? The idea sounds kind of comforting! Well, Meta hopes its upcoming username feature will make it possible. But even before the feature rolls out, it's caught the attention of the Indian government over concerns it could be misused by scammers or impersonators.

In response, WhatsApp has published a detailed list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) explaining how the feature will work and what steps are being taken to protect users from fraudulent, imitative, and unwanted messages.

The clarification comes after the Centre asked Meta not to roll it out until discussions with the government on security concerns are completed.

Why is the government worried?
The planned username feature will allow WhatsApp users to connect using a unique username instead of sharing their mobile number.

While the idea could improve privacy, officials have expressed concern that it could also create new opportunities for scammers to defraud people by creating usernames that resemble trusted individuals, celebrities or organizations.

The government has raised questions about whether the feature could make it easier to steal someone else's identity and increase online fraud if strong security measures are not put in place.

To address these concerns, WhatsApp has now revealed what security measures it plans to introduce before the feature becomes available to everyone.

What's changing?
Currently, WhatsApp users typically need a phone number to connect with someone. The new feature will introduce unique usernames, allowing users to chat without revealing their mobile number.

According to WhatsApp, this feature is completely optional. Users who prefer to use only their phone number will be able to do so without any changes.

The company says that username reservations have already begun, although the feature will launch later this year. This is because many people will want a unique username before the public rollout.

Can someone take your favorite username?
One of the biggest concerns has been whether someone else can reserve a famous or well-known name before its original owner.

WhatsApp says this will not happen.

The company says that usernames associated with existing Instagram or Facebook accounts are reserved for their owners. If someone is already using a specific username on those Meta platforms, they will receive priority access to that name on WhatsApp if they choose to link their accounts.

WhatsApp has also reserved usernames associated with well-known public figures, celebrities, government organizations, and Meta-verified accounts. The uniqueness of those names is also protected to reduce the likelihood of them being fake.

If a username isn't already available because another common user has claimed it, WhatsApp says users can rely on its username generator to provide other suggestions.

How will WhatsApp combat counterfeiting?
The company says it has several security measures in place.

For starters, people won't be able to randomly search for usernames on WhatsApp, just like they can't search for phone numbers right now.

WhatsApp also says it will display safety warnings when users receive messages from unknown people. These warnings may include details such as the sender's country, whether the account is new, and whether the two users share any common groups.

The platform also says it will closely monitor user reports and account blocks to identify potential scam accounts and take action against them.

It also warned users not to trust online claims that popular or well-known usernames can be purchased or reserved through unofficial means. According to the company, only the original account owners can claim protected names.

What is the Username Key?
One of WhatsApp's new safety features is the Username Key. It acts as an extra layer of security. If enabled, another person will need both the user's username and username key before they can start a conversation.

Users can also reset their username key at any time, preventing future attempts to contact them using the previous key.

WhatsApp believes this will help users control who can reach them through their username.

Do users need to connect to Instagram or Facebook?

Linking an Instagram or Facebook account is completely optional. However, users who want to have the same username on WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook will need to temporarily link those accounts to prove ownership.

After claiming the username, users can unlink the account if they wish.

Those who don't want to connect to any other meta services can simply choose a completely different username that's just for WhatsApp.

Can I change my username later?

Yes. WhatsApp says users will be able to change their username whenever they want, provided a new username is available.

PC:Amar Ujala