Why does WhatsApp’s username feature spark fresh debate?:Reportedly tests the controversial feature again amid privacy concerns in India

WhatsApp is reportedly testing its username feature again in India, even as concerns over user privacy and online safety remain. The upcoming feature will allow users to find and message others using their usernames instead of phone numbers, making it easier to connect with people.
However, the Indian government has previously raised concerns about the potential risks of misuse and asked the platform to pause the rollout. The latest reports of testing have once again brought the feature into focus, raising questions about how WhatsApp plans to balance user convenience with privacy and security. WhatsApp tests username search feature in India According to tipster Abhishek Yadav, who shared a post on X, WhatsApp is reportedly testing its username feature in India. He shared two screenshots showing how users can search for someone by entering their username in the app’s search bar. The screenshots suggest that WhatsApp can display a matching account even if the person is not saved in the user’s contacts. A chat button also appears beside the search result, allowing users to start a conversation. However, users would need to know the other person’s username to find and contact them through this method. This could offer an alternative to sharing phone numbers when connecting with others on the platform. Government raises privacy and security concerns The Indian government had earlier raised concerns about WhatsApp’s planned username feature. In July 2026, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology reportedly asked Meta to explain how the feature would work within three days. It also asked WhatsApp to pause the rollout in India until discussions with the government were completed. The government expressed concerns that the feature could create new opportunities for online fraud, phishing attacks, digital arrest scams and impersonation. It also warned that scammers could use usernames resembling those of government departments, banks, financial institutions or other individuals to mislead users. These concerns have put the planned feature under regulatory scrutiny in India. The latest reports of testing come as questions remain about its rollout in the country. When will WhatsApp usernames roll out in India? WhatsApp has not officially announced a launch date for its username feature in India. The company has previously indicated that the feature would be introduced gradually around the world. Users would receive a notification when it becomes available to them. For now, it remains unclear when Indian users will be able to use usernames to find and contact people on WhatsApp. The feature’s wider rollout may depend on further updates from the company.