After WhatsApp, govt sends notice to Telegram, Signal over username features

The Centre has expanded its scrutiny of messaging platforms' username features, sending notices to Telegram and Signal after raising similar concerns with WhatsApp, as per a report by news agency PTI.

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has sought explanations from Telegram and Signal on how they are addressing risks related to fraud, impersonation and other forms of online abuse associated with usernames, the report mentioned. The government has also reportedly asked Telegram why it should be allowed to continue offering the



feature.

The latest move comes a day after the government ordered Meta not to roll out WhatsApp usernames in India until consultations on the feature's privacy and security implications are completed. In a notice sent to Meta's Chief Compliance Officer, officials sought a detailed response within three days and questioned whether the feature could increase cybercrime risks.

The ministry has now extended the review to Telegram and Signal, both of which already allow users to communicate through usernames rather than phone numbers.