Ankur Warikoo raises red flag over WhatsApp's username feature: 'This could be a disaster'
Entrepreneur and author Ankur Warikoo has voiced concerns over WhatsApp's upcoming username feature, warning that while the update is expected to strengthen user privacy, it
Entrepreneur and author Ankur Warikoo has voiced concerns over WhatsApp's upcoming username feature, warning that while the update is expected to strengthen user privacy, it could also create new opportunities for impersonation scams if adequate safeguards are not in place. The feature, which is currently under development, will allow users to create and reserve unique usernames, enabling them to connect with others without sharing their phone numbers. The change is being positioned as a privacy-focused update, but Warikoo believes it could also make it easier for fraudsters to impersonate public figures and target unsuspecting users. Sharing his concerns in a post on X, Warikoo said the feature could pose significant risks in India if WhatsApp does not implement strong anti-abuse systems. Quick answers to key questions • 5 QUESTIONS 1 What are WhatsApp usernames and how do they work? ⌵ WhatsApp usernames allow users to identify themselves without revealing their phone numbers. Users must know the exact username to initiate contact, and there will be no directory for browsing usernames. 2 Why has Ankur Warikoo raised concerns about WhatsApp's username feature? ⌵ Ankur Warikoo warns that the username feature could lead to impersonation scams if adequate anti-abuse measures are not implemented, particularly in India where such scams are prevalent.
3 How can users reserve their WhatsApp usernames? ⌵ To reserve a username on WhatsApp, users need to wait for the official launch of the feature, then update the app, go to Settings, click on Account, and select Username to choose their desired username. 4 What safeguards does WhatsApp have in place to prevent impersonation with usernames? ⌵ WhatsApp will reserve usernames already used on its platforms for existing owners and will protect usernames associated with celebrities and public figures to prevent impersonation. 5 Should users be concerned about privacy when using WhatsApp usernames? ⌵ While usernames enhance privacy by allowing communication without sharing phone numbers, users should remain cautious as similar usernames could still enable scammers to impersonate others. "In a country such as India, this could be a disaster, if the right anti-abuse systems are not set up by WhatsApp," he wrote. Explaining his concerns, Warikoo said scammers could create usernames closely resembling those of well-known personalities to deceive people into sending money or joining fraudulent investment groups. "Imagine receiving a message from warikoo / awarikoo / ankurwarikooo / ankur_warikoo / a_warikoo / ankurwarikooofficial etc etc - soliciting money.
The BriefWire