WhatsApp's New Username Feature Sparks Impersonation Concerns in India

WhatsApp's next update is already making headlines, even before it reaches everyone. The messaging platform's decision to introduce usernames has kicked off a discussion that goes beyond privacy. A post by entrepreneur and content creator Ankur Warikoo has put the spotlight on a question many users are now asking: could a feature meant to protect personal information also make online impersonation easier? His remarks quickly gained traction on social media, with YouTuber Dhruv Rathee and many others joining the conversation.

WhatsApp to roll out usernames

WhatsApp has announced that users will soon be able to reserve usernames through Settings > Account > Username. The feature will let people connect without sharing their phone numbers and is expected to roll out more widely later this year.

Ankur Warikoo explains why he is concerned

Warikoo said the feature could create problems in India if it is introduced without strong systems to prevent abuse. “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 on X. He said scammers could create usernames that closely resemble those of public figures and influencers, making it difficult for users to tell the difference. “Imagine receiving a message from warikoo / awarikoo / ankurwarikooo / ankur_warikoo / a_warikoo / ankurwarikooofficial etc etc – soliciting money,” he said. “Cannot be verified through calling the phone number (because username = privacy),” he added. He also referred to his earlier legal battle with Meta over AI-generated advertisements that allegedly used his face to lure people into fake investment WhatsApp groups. “I have fought a legal case against Meta’s lack of attempt to bring down AI-generated ads showing my face, luring people into investment WhatsApp groups. I understand how massive this scam is and how easy it is in our country to execute it,” he wrote.

Dhruv Rathee criticises Meta

Warikoo's post prompted reactions from several users, including YouTuber Dhruv Rathee, who criticized Meta's handling of scams across its platforms. “They don’t care.. Team Zuckerberg’s only goal is to extract as much money as possible. They willingly let scams and fraud ads run on their other platforms. Now they’ll probably let the same happen on WhatsApp,” he commented.

Internet remains divided

The discussion saw both support and disagreement. Some users felt WhatsApp should introduce stronger verification tools or better reporting systems before rolling out usernames to everyone. “The WhatsApp username feature has been introduced in the name of privacy, but in a country like India, it could become a haven for scammers,” one user warned, adding that robust verification and anti-impersonation systems were urgently needed. Others argued that impersonation is already possible using profile photos, names, and different phone numbers. “That can happen even today right? Someone can simply use your pic, name and send from any other mobile number,” one user wrote. Another commented, “but the same can be done on x too. facebook too. telegram too. why is it a problem just because its whatsapp?” The discussion also included lighter reactions. “Chill out bro. No one will send money with those warikoo usernames of yours Instead they will text me if I could afford the next BMW with my salary or not ,” one person joked. With the wider rollout still ahead, the discussion around WhatsApp usernames continues, with privacy and protection against impersonation emerging as the two biggest talking points.Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information and statements made by the individuals concerned. The Times of India has not independently verified the claims. Thumb image: X/@warikoo, X/@WhatsApp