WhatsApp Messenger to Begin Offering Usernames
- On Monday, WhatsApp announced it will allow users to be identified by usernames instead of phone numbers, claiming the move improves privacy by letting people connect without sharing personal contact digits.
- Reducing the need to share phone numbers improves privacy, as digits are currently tied to banking, authentication, and other digital services that make them persistent personal identifiers.
- Usernames must be 3 to 35 characters and can only be reserved via smartphone; WhatsApp will not provide a public directory or autocomplete suggestions, requiring users to know exact handles.
- WhatsApp will roll out the feature gradually over coming months, notifying users when available in their country, while adding optional username keys and limiting new contacts to defend against scammers.
- Creators, companies, and organizations with existing Meta accounts on Instagram and Facebook can claim their usernames on WhatsApp, reflecting a broader trend where digital identities become increasingly portable across platforms.
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With the current update, WhatsApp is taking new paths in terms of security. However, the exact opposite could happen.
WhatsApp prepares one of the most relevant changes in its recent history. The messaging app announced the arrival of user names, a feature that will allow you to start conversations without sharing your phone number. The measure is aimed at strengthening the privacy of your users.The tool will start to be implemented gradually over the next few months, although since this week some people can already book the username they will use when the feat…
Govt tells Meta to hold WhatsApp username feature rollout, seeks reply in 3 days
The government's move comes as WhatsApp prepares to introduce one of its biggest privacy changes in recent years by allowing users to connect through unique usernames instead of sharing their mobile phone numbers.
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