After WhatsApp, Centre sends notices to Telegram, Signal over username feature concerns

After raising concerns over WhatsApp’s proposed username feature, the Centre has now extended its scrutiny to Telegram and Signal, seeking details on how the two messaging platforms are addressing risks related to fraud and impersonation, according to a PTI report.The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has issued notices to both Telegram and Signal, asking them to explain the safeguards in place for their username-based messaging systems. The ministry has also reportedly sought an explanation from Telegram on why it should be allowed to continue offering the username feature.The move follows the government’s notice to Meta regarding WhatsApp’s proposed username feature. As reported by PTI, the Centre has asked WhatsApp to keep the rollout on hold until consultations on the issue are completed to the government’s satisfaction, citing concerns that the feature could potentially facilitate cyber fraud.Government sources told PTI that the review has now widened to include other messaging platforms that already allow users to communicate through usernames instead of phone numbers.Responding to the government’s concerns on Wednesday, WhatsApp said its proposed username feature has been designed with multiple safeguards to help prevent scams and impersonation while protecting users.India remains WhatsApp’s largest market, with more than 500 million users, giving the Meta-owned platform a significantly larger user base than Telegram, according to the PTI report.