Meta Asked to Clarify WhatsApp Username Plans as India Delays Launch

Meta Platforms has been asked to submit an extensive brief on its WhatsApp username rollout, following a notice from the Indian government. The request comes after initial apprehensions that the feature might bypass phone-number verification, a requirement under the 2024 Telecom Cyber Security Rules. Experts warn that without robust abuse‑prevention systems, the usernames could become a vector for impersonation and fraudulent activities.