India demands Meta explain WhatsApp username feature risks
The Indian government has demanded that Meta pause the rollout of its proposed WhatsApp 'usernames' feature and provide a security explanation within three days, citing fears that it could increase online fraud, impersonation, and scams. This action followed notices also issued to Telegram and Signal regarding similar features. Concerns focus on how usernames might facilitate identity spoofing and hinder cybercrime investigations by obscuring verified phone numbers. In response, some entities, like Zoho's Arattai, have announced plans to remove similar features, signaling alignment with the government's regulatory stance.
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