After WhatsApp, Government Sets Sights on Telegram and Signal; Action Likely

Recently, the government issued a notice to WhatsApp, directing it to halt the rollout of its username feature. Now, the government is scrutinizing Telegram and Signal as well, and notices seeking a response could be issued to both platforms.

WhatsApp Username Feature: Following the halt on WhatsApp's username feature, the government may now take action against Telegram and Signal. Both platforms already offer a username feature. The Ministry of IT may now send notices to them seeking details regarding this feature. The government wants to understand how user authenticity is verified within this feature and whether it could allow individuals to mislead or defraud others by creating accounts using fake names or impersonating others. Notably, the government had previously imposed a temporary ban on Telegram after its name surfaced in connection with the NEET paper leak incident.

Answers will be sought for the following questions:

What is the process for creating a username?

What security measures are in place to prevent fake or deceptively similar usernames?

How is the impersonation of government bodies, celebrities, or private individuals prevented?

What is the procedure for removing or blocking fake usernames upon receiving a complaint?

How is cooperation extended to law enforcement agencies when required?

WhatsApp's Username Feature Halted

WhatsApp was introducing the username feature to enhance user privacy, but the rollout was halted before it could be fully implemented. The government issued a notice to Meta, directing it not to roll out the feature and demanding a response within three days. The government took a strict stance due to concerns regarding fraud and scams involving concealed identities. In response, WhatsApp stated that the feature is not currently being rolled out and that it has incorporated several security measures. WhatsApp had only just begun allowing users to reserve usernames for this feature.

What are the government's concerns regarding the username feature? In a notice sent to WhatsApp, the government has stated that this feature could lead to an increase in incidents of online fraud, phishing, "digital arrests," and fraud involving concealed identities. The government is also concerned that the feature could be misused to reserve names resembling those of individuals, government bodies, financial institutions, and official agencies, making it difficult for users to distinguish between genuine and fake accounts. A government official noted that cybercriminals are already orchestrating scams like "digital arrests" via WhatsApp, and this feature could further facilitate such activities.