India's Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology is preparing formal notices for Telegram and Signal regarding their username-based messaging systems [1].
The move signals a tightening of regulatory oversight over encrypted messaging apps. Authorities are concerned that allowing users to connect via usernames—rather than verified phone numbers—could expose millions of citizens to increased cyber risks.
The IT Ministry's scrutiny began with WhatsApp. In a letter dated July 1, 2026, the government asked Meta to hold the rollout of its username feature pending further consultations [2]. The ministry said the feature could facilitate fraud, impersonation, and other forms of online abuse [3].
"We have asked Meta to provide a detailed explanation within three days why regulatory action should not be initiated," the Indian IT ministry said in the letter [2]. This strict three-day deadline [2] underscores the urgency the government feels regarding consumer protection and cybersecurity.
Following the action against Meta, the government began preparing similar notices for Telegram and Signal in early July 2026 [1]. The ministry said it intends to request detailed explanations of how these platforms manage their username systems and what safeguards are in place to prevent misuse [1].
Meta has defended its approach to the new feature. "WhatsApp usernames are safeguarded against scams with multiple layers of defence," a Meta spokesperson said [4].
Despite these assurances, the Indian government maintains that the shift away from phone-number-linked identities creates vulnerabilities. The ministry is currently evaluating whether these features comply with national cybersecurity standards, or if they necessitate new regulatory restrictions to prevent a rise in impersonation scams [3].
“"WhatsApp usernames are safeguarded against scams with multiple layers of defence,"”
This regulatory push reflects a broader tension between the industry trend toward user anonymity and the Indian government's preference for traceable identities. By challenging the shift from phone numbers to usernames, the IT Ministry is attempting to balance user privacy with the need to mitigate financial fraud and impersonation in one of the world's largest digital markets.
