Govt mulls common standards for messaging platforms after WhatsApp username row
New Delhi, July 11
The government is considering introducing uniform standards for messaging platforms operating in India following the controversy over WhatsApp's proposed username feature, according to multiple reports.
Reports suggested that the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) is exploring a common regulatory framework that would apply across messaging platforms, instead of taking platform-specific decisions.
The move comes after the government opposed WhatsApp's proposed username feature, which would allow users to communicate without sharing their phone numbers.
The government argued that the feature could make it easier for fraudsters to impersonate users, facilitate digital arrest scams and phishing attempts, and make law enforcement investigations more difficult.
In addition, the government is now looking at introducing common standards for all messaging platforms to ensure a uniform regulatory approach.
Reports claim that the Centre will consult major messaging platforms before taking a final decision on the proposed framework.
Earlier in July, messaging platform Telegram submitted its reply to the government's notice on the username feature, following a similar response from WhatsApp.
The 'username' feature allows users to communicate without sharing their mobile phone numbers, a functionality that has drawn the Centre's attention over concerns that it could facilitate online fraud, phishing, impersonation and so-called digital arrest scams.
Similarly, WhatsApp had submitted its response to the government's notice over its proposed username feature.
The government had issued a notice to WhatsApp last week, raising concerns that the proposed feature could potentially lead to a rise in online fraud, phishing, digital-arrest scams and impersonation attacks.
It also directed the messaging platform not to roll out the username feature in India until consultations on the issue were completed to the government's satisfaction.
The proposed feature would allow users to communicate on WhatsApp without sharing their mobile phone numbers, providing an additional layer of privacy.
— IANS
Reader Comments
As someone who works in tech, I see both sides. Privacy is important, but in a country where digital literacy is still catching up, usernames could become a weapon for cybercrime. Uniform standards would help platforms like Signal and Telegram stay compliant too. But please consult all stakeholders, not just the big players! 🙏
Honestly, what is the point of usernames when most people already share phone numbers for work and family? It's just giving scammers another tool. Instead of banning features, the government should mandate KYC for all messaging apps - that would solve much bigger problems than this username debate.
Interesting that India is leading this conversation. In the UK, WhatsApp usernames are already being tested without much fuss. But I understand the context - with digital arrest scams and fraud being so rampant here, precaution is reasonable. Common standards could set a global precedent if done right.
Another committee, another consultation... Meanwhile, scammers are getting smarter every day! 😤 We need action, not more meetings. The government should deploy AI systems to detect fake accounts instead of just blocking features. Innovation shouldn't be punished because of misuse - that's like banning cars because some people drive recklessly!
Finally someone thinking about law enforcement! My uncle is a police officer and he says tracking criminals on encrypted platforms is nearly impossible now. If usernames add another layer of anonymity, it's a red flag. Common standards should mandate traceability features while respecting privacy. There must be a middle path.
M Michael C