WhatsApp gets username feature, internet says it is turning into Telegram: Story in 5 points

WhatsApp has announced a new username feature that will allow you to contact others without their phone numbers. This has sparked debate that WhatsApp may be turning into Telegram. But is that the case? Here is everything you need to know.

In Short

• WhatsApp adds usernames, internet raises security concerns
• Some say this may make it easier for scammers
• WhatsApp has added option for Username Key for added privacy

Usernames are coming to WhatsApp. That is, you will soon be able to connect with others on the app without sharing your phone number. The Meta-owned platform says that this feature will be useful for those who are not willing to share their number with someone.

Some have raised concerns that this may open a pandora’s box when it comes to users impersonating others and potentially scamming unsuspecting users. But is that really the case? Will WhatsApp’s usernames make it easier for scammers? Here is everything you need to know about this new feature.

1. What are people saying about WhatsApp usernames?

Online, some have expressed concerns over the way usernames may be misused. Jasveer Singh, co-founder of KnotDating, claimed that usernames may bring WhatsApp closer to Telegram. He wrote on X, “WhatsApp just launched usernames. My first thought wasn’t privacy - it was scams. The biggest reason I never used Telegram was because anyone could contact you without knowing your phone number. It became a paradise for scammers.”

Finfluencer Ankur Warikoo pointed out that bringing usernames may make things difficult for users in India. He posted on X, “In a country such as India, this could be a disaster, if the right anti-abuse systems are not set up by WhatsApp.” Warikoo imagined that people may try to impersonate him on the platform with usernames. “Imagine receiving a message from warikoo / awarikoo / ankurwarikooo / ankur_warikoo / a_warikoo / ankurwarikooofficial etc etc - soliciting money,” he added.

Paytm founder Vijay Shekher Sharma chimed in the conversation, expressing similar concerns. He added, “Soon you will have verified username on WhatsApp, and then unverified similar-sounding usernames... which in turn will..."

2. How to create WhatsApp username?

If you want to create your username on WhatsApp. You can do so by going to the account page in the app settings. Here you will find the option to choose your username, which can be edited or removed later on. Usernames can be up to 35 characters long. After a username is chosen, you also get the option for a Username Key, but more on that later.

Do note that you will need to have the latest version of the WhatsApp app to pick a username.

3. Can anyone find me with a WhatsApp username?

WhatsApp says that there will be no list of usernames on the app. That is, no one can browse the app to find your username. To find your account, users will have to type your exact username.

4. How does the Username Key work on WhatsApp?

And this is where the Username Key comes into play. If you have the key turned on, people can only contact you when they know the key, which is a unique four-digit code. That is, even if someone knows your username, they won’t be able to contact you.

But keep in mind that the Username Key is turned off by default.

5. Can WhatsApp usernames be misused?

While there are fears of people misusing the username feature, you need to understand that the basic way WhatsApp works is not changing. Every WhatsApp account will still need a phone number to work, so no one can use the app without a number linked to their account.

And when it comes to impersonation, WhatsApp has built some safeguards. You cannot get a username on the app if the exact username is used by someone on Instagram or Facebook. This means that you likely don’t need to worry about someone copying your Instagram handle on WhatsApp even if you choose a different one for yourself. In case you do want the same username on WhatsApp, you will need to link your Instagram account to the app.

WhatsApp has also stated that some usernames of prominent personalities will be reserved to prevent impersonation.

For now, you can only reserve your username on WhatsApp as the platform rolls out the feature globally in the coming months.

- Ends