WhatsApp Responds To Centre's Notice On Username Feature

New Delhi: WhatsApp has submitted its response to the Centre's notice regarding its proposed 'username' feature. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) had issued a notice to WhatsApp, expressing concerns that the feature could increase incidents of online fraud, phishing, and impersonation attacks.

The government had directed WhatsApp not to launch the feature in India until consultations were completed. The proposed feature would allow users to connect and communicate on WhatsApp without sharing their mobile phone numbers, offering an additional layer of privacy.

WhatsApp had sought additional time to submit its response and assured the Centre that it would not roll out the feature in India until discussions with authorities were concluded. Sources familiar with the matter said the IT Ministry has received WhatsApp's response and is examining the company's submissions.

The IT Ministry had also issued similar notices to Telegram and Signal over their username features. IT Secretary S. Krishnan said the government would await the formal response to the notice and take a view based on the response.

The government's concerns over the username feature are centered around the potential for increased online fraud and phishing attacks. The feature could allow users to hide their identities, making it easier for scammers to operate.

The issue is part of a larger debate over online privacy and security in India. The government has been pushing for greater regulation of social media platforms and messaging apps, citing concerns over national security and public safety.

In a related development, IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw had instructed ministry officials to summon Meta and seek an explanation regarding the alleged presence of child sexual abuse material in advertisements on Instagram.

The Centre's notice to WhatsApp is a significant development in the ongoing debate over online regulation in India. The government's concerns over the username feature highlight the need for greater scrutiny of social media platforms and messaging apps.

The IT Ministry's decision to issue notices to WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal is part of a broader effort to regulate the online space in India. The government has been working to develop new regulations and guidelines for social media platforms and messaging apps, with a focus on improving online safety and security.

As the government examines WhatsApp's response, it remains to be seen how the issue will be resolved. The Centre's concerns over the username feature are likely to be a major factor in the ongoing debate over online regulation in India.

In conclusion, the Centre's notice to WhatsApp and the company's response are significant developments in the ongoing debate over online regulation in India. The issue highlights the need for greater scrutiny of social media platforms and messaging apps, and the importance of balancing online privacy and security with national security and public safety concerns.