WhatsApp usernames are intended to improve privacy by allowing users to connect without sharing their phone numbers. However, the upcoming feature has already sparked concerns that scammers could exploit the system to impersonate public figures, launch phishing attacks, and trick users into trusting fake accounts.
The messaging platform recently began allowing some users to reserve usernames ahead of the feature’s wider release. Soon after, security researchers, technology journalists, and government officials raised questions about how WhatsApp plans to prevent fraud and protect well-known accounts.
WhatsApp Usernames Replace Phone Numbers
The new feature will allow users to communicate using WhatsApp usernames instead of phone numbers. The change is intended to make it easier to connect with others while revealing less personal information.
Although the privacy benefits are clear, critics argue that usernames introduce a new challenge. If scammers claim usernames that resemble trusted individuals or brands, they could trick users into believing they are communicating with legitimate accounts.
Impersonation Concerns Surface Before Launch
Questions about impersonation first gained attention in India, WhatsApp’s largest market with more than 853 million users.
Testing by TechCrunch found that several username variations linked to politicians, celebrities, and business leaders were still available. These included names associated with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bollywood actors Shah Rukh Khan and Amitabh Bachchan.
The findings raised concerns that fraudsters could register similar usernames before the official owners do.
Binance founder Changpeng Zhao also said he was unable to reserve his own username. He warned users that anyone attempting to contact people under his name should not be considered legitimate and could be a scammer.
India Raises Fraud Concerns
India’s Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has reportedly contacted WhatsApp over the feature.
According to reports, the ministry warned that WhatsApp usernames could increase the risk of online fraud, phishing attacks, scams, and impersonation. Officials also asked the company to delay the public rollout until discussions about the potential risks are complete.
The concerns reflect a broader challenge facing messaging platforms. While usernames improve privacy, they can also make it easier for attackers to create convincing fake identities.
WhatsApp Says Public Figures Are Protected
WhatsApp has pushed back against claims that anyone can reserve the username of a public figure.
In a post on X, the company said only legitimate account owners will be able to reserve well-known public figure usernames. It also stated that claims suggesting otherwise are false.
The company explained that businesses, creators, and organizations will be able to claim usernames that match their identities across other platforms, including Facebook and Instagram. However, WhatsApp has not yet provided detailed information about how that verification process will work.
Feature Still Under Review
WhatsApp says it is reviewing feedback before rolling out WhatsApp usernames to everyone.
As the company refines the feature, it faces the challenge of balancing user privacy with account security. If strong verification and protection measures are not in place, scammers could take advantage of the new system before legitimate users have the opportunity to secure their identities.
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