India examines Telegram, WhatsApp username feature
Analysis based on 7 articles · First reported Jul 10, 2026 · Last updated Jul 10, 2026
The regulatory scrutiny may lead to stricter compliance requirements for messaging platforms in India, potentially affecting user growth and feature rollout. However, the direct financial impact is limited as the companies have large user bases and diversified revenue streams.
The Indian India — Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has issued notices to Meta Platforms — WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal regarding their 'username' features, which allow users to communicate without sharing phone numbers. The government expressed concerns that the feature could increase online fraud, phishing, digital arrest scams, and impersonation attacks. Meta Platforms — WhatsApp was directed not to launch its proposed username feature until consultations are completed to the government's satisfaction, and Meta Platforms — WhatsApp assured it would comply. Telegram and Signal received notices about their existing username features. Both Meta Platforms — WhatsApp and Telegram have submitted replies, which are being examined. Separately, MeitY issued a notice to Meta over child sexual abuse material in Instagram ads, and Telegram was directed to curb piracy of copyrighted content.
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