The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has expanded its regulatory scrutiny over instant messaging platforms by issuing notices to Telegram and Signal. This action follows a similar directive sent to Meta-owned WhatsApp regarding its proposed username feature. The Central government has raised significant concerns that allowing communication through usernames rather than mobile numbers could lead to a sharp rise in online fraud, phishing, impersonation, and digital arrest scams. Government sources indicate that MeitY is now reviewing all messaging services operating in India that utilize username-based communication to ensure cyber security and user protection.
Government Voices Anonymity and Fraud Concerns
According to sources within the ministry, the government has specifically directed Telegram to explain the justification for continuing its username-based communication feature. Authorities believe that allowing users to interact solely via usernames enables cybercriminals to hide their identities, making it easier for them to approach potential victims anonymously. This anonymity presents a severe challenge for law enforcement investigations and identity tracking. The government’s intervention aims to address these vulnerabilities before they can be further exploited by fraudsters targeting Indian citizens.
WhatsApp Directed to Postpone Feature Rollout
The notice to Telegram and Signal was dispatched just a day after MeitY issued a similar notice to Meta concerning WhatsApp’s upcoming username functionality. The government has directed WhatsApp to halt the rollout of this feature in India until comprehensive consultations with officials are completed. Furthermore, the ministry has asked WhatsApp to explain why regulatory action should not be initiated against it under the Information Technology Act and its associated rules, reminding the platform of its legal due diligence obligations as a Significant Social Media Intermediary. India is WhatsApp’s largest market, boasting over 500 million users. In its defense, WhatsApp stated that the feature is not yet live, registration will still require a mobile number, and a sender must know the exact username to initiate contact.
Experts Demand Stricter Verification Mechanisms
Cyber crime expert and former IPS officer Prof. Triveni Singh highlighted the risks associated with username-based communication, noting that without robust verification and security controls, such features give cybercriminals fresh opportunities to manufacture fake identities. He warned that these loopholes are frequently exploited in investment scams, banking fraud, fake KYC updates, and digital arrest schemes. Singh emphasized that any new digital feature must be backed by strong identity verification, effective grievance redressal systems, and technical safeguards. The scrutiny also follows recent compliance issues for Telegram, which was previously placed under temporary restrictions in India over the unauthorized circulation of fake and leaked NEET examination materials before those restrictions were eventually lifted.
