Centre Holds Talks with WhatsApp Over Digital Security

The central government has granted additional time to WhatsApp to respond over the controversy surrounding its proposed username feature. Following WhatsApp’s request, the company has reportedly been given a three-day extension. WhatsApp representatives assured the Ministry of Information Technology that the feature would not be introduced in India until discussions are completed.

The government has raised concerns that allowing users to communicate without revealing phone numbers could increase risks of online crimes, digital arrest frauds, and misuse through fake identities. The original deadline given to WhatsApp for submitting its response ended last Friday.