Enhanced Privacy with Usernames
WhatsApp, the popular instant messaging and video-calling platform, has introduced usernames as a privacy feature to help users hide their phone numbers from people not in their contact list. This move is part of Meta's efforts to make WhatsApp even more private, with over 3 billion people in over 180 countries using the platform.
According to Meta, usernames will be rolled out gradually over the coming months, and users will be notified when the feature becomes available in their country. To reserve a username, users need to update to the latest version of WhatsApp and go to Settings > Account > Username.
How Usernames Work
Once the new username becomes active, people who don't have the user's phone number in their contact list will see the username instead. Users can also change their reserved username or delete it at any time, but doing so will allow others to claim it. Additionally, some usernames are held for governments, public figures, and businesses, and can't be claimed by other users.
Meta has also introduced an optional username key that others will need to know before messaging the user via the new username. This feature is designed to help control who can reach the user on WhatsApp with their username.
Comparison to Other Messaging Services
The introduction of usernames on WhatsApp is not a new concept in the messaging world. The Signal encrypted messaging service has been allowing users to choose a custom username since February 2024, following a public test phase that began in November 2023.
WhatsApp's move to introduce usernames is seen as a step towards enhancing user privacy, which is a key concern for many users. With the rise of phishing attacks and other forms of cyber threats, users are looking for ways to protect their personal information and maintain their online security.
Reserving Usernames
To reserve a username, users need to follow these steps:
- Update to the latest version of WhatsApp
- Go to Settings > Account > Username
- Choose a unique username that is not already taken
- Confirm the username reservation
Once the username is reserved, users can use it to receive messages from others who know their username. The username will be displayed instead of the user's phone number, providing an additional layer of privacy and security.
Conclusion
The introduction of usernames on WhatsApp is a significant step towards enhancing user privacy and security. With the rise of cyber threats and phishing attacks, users need to be vigilant and take steps to protect their personal information. By reserving a username, users can maintain their online security and keep their phone number private.
Starting this week, you can reserve a username to use later this year when we launch this feature. With over three billion people on WhatsApp a lot of names overlap, which is why we're opening reservations early so everyone has the opportunity to select the username that matters to them.
As WhatsApp continues to evolve and improve its features, users can expect to see more enhancements to their privacy and security. With the introduction of usernames, WhatsApp is taking a significant step towards providing users with more control over their online presence and personal information.
Source: BleepingComputer