IndiaPage | Articles | #upi | Get Latest Political & Global Updates, Sports News, Latest National & International NRI News in India, USA & other countries around the world

WhatsApp usernames update: privacy gain or new security risk in India

How WhatsApp usernames change user identity sharing WhatsApp’s rollout of usernames introduces a new way for users to connect without directly sharing their mobile number. In India, where phone numbers are closely connected to UPI payments, Aadhaar verification, banking services, and multiple digital identity systems, this shift is especially significant. While phone numbers remain required for account creation and verification, they will no longer be the only way users identify or connect with each other on the platform. Privacy improvements and everyday impact The introduction of usernames helps reduce exposure of personal phone numbers in group chats, business communication, and online marketplaces. This can lower the chances of spam calls, unsolicited messages, and basic data harvesting. It also creates a separation between private identity and public interaction, which is increasingly important in large digital ecosystems like India’s. However, the actual privacy benefit will depend on how WhatsApp manages visibility settings and user discovery options. Cybersecurity concerns and impersonation risks At the same time, experts warn that usernames introduce new cybersecurity challenges. The biggest concern is impersonation, where attackers can create similar-looking usernames to deceive users. Unlike phone numbers, usernames can be copied or slightly modified, making fake accounts harder to detect at a glance. In India, where cyber fraud linked to messaging apps and digital payments is already rising, this increases the importance of careful identity verification. Safety features and implementation factors WhatsApp is expected to introduce additional protections such as a “username key” system, which restricts who can message a user even if they know the username. This could help reduce spam and unwanted contact. However, the overall effectiveness of the feature will depend on default settings, user awareness, and how strictly WhatsApp enforces anti-impersonation measures. The update represents a shift in digital identity handling, offering stronger privacy on one side while introducing new forms of security risk on the other.

Internet & Technology

02 Jul 2026 10:28 AM 4 views

WhatsApp usernames update: privacy gain or new security risk in India

How WhatsApp usernames change user identity sharing WhatsApp’s rollout of usernames introduces a new way for users to connect without directly sharing their mobile number. In India, where phone numbers are closely connected to UPI payments, Aadhaar verification, banking services, and multiple digital identity systems, this shift is especially significant. While phone numbers remain required for account creation and verification, they will no longer be the only way users identify or connect with each other on the platform. Privacy improvements and everyday impact The introduction of usernames helps reduce exposure of personal phone numbers in group chats, business communication, and online marketplaces. This can lower the chances of spam calls, unsolicited messages, and basic data harvesting. It also creates a separation between private identity and public interaction, which is increasingly important in large digital ecosystems like India’s. However, the actual privacy benefit will depend on how WhatsApp manages visibility settings and user discovery options. Cybersecurity concerns and impersonation risks At the same time, experts warn that usernames introduce new cybersecurity challenges. The biggest concern is impersonation, where attackers can create similar-looking usernames to deceive users. Unlike phone numbers, usernames can be copied or slightly modified, making fake accounts harder to detect at a glance. In India, where cyber fraud linked to messaging apps and digital payments is already rising, this increases the importance of careful identity verification. Safety features and implementation factors WhatsApp is expected to introduce additional protections such as a “username key” system, which restricts who can message a user even if they know the username. This could help reduce spam and unwanted contact. However, the overall effectiveness of the feature will depend on default settings, user awareness, and how strictly WhatsApp enforces anti-impersonation measures. The update represents a shift in digital identity handling, offering stronger privacy on one side while introducing new forms of security risk on the other.

Internet & Technology

FIFA World Cup 2026 Begins With Biggest-Ever Format

World Cup Returns With New Format And India Watch Details FIFA World Cup 2026 begins with a bigger format, three host nations, and strong attention from Indian football fans. With 48 teams, 104 matches, and a new knockout stage, this edition is set to be the largest World Cup so far. FIFA World Cup 2026 Kicks Off With New Format And Big India Interest

Sports & Games

11 Jun 2026 16:20 PM 5 views

FIFA World Cup 2026 Begins With Biggest-Ever Format

World Cup Returns With New Format And India Watch Details FIFA World Cup 2026 begins with a bigger format, three host nations, and strong attention from Indian football fans. With 48 teams, 104 matches, and a new knockout stage, this edition is set to be the largest World Cup so far. FIFA World Cup 2026 Kicks Off With New Format And Big India Interest

Sports & Games

Venus And Jupiter Shine Together In Rare Sky Moment

Venus-Jupiter Conjunction 2026 Lights Up Evening Sky Venus and Jupiter appeared close together in the western sky, creating a bright celestial view for skywatchers on June 9. Venus And Jupiter Create a Stunning Evening View Skywatchers witnessed a beautiful celestial moment as Venus and Jupiter appeared close together in the evening sky. The two bright planets were seen sinking towards the western horizon, creating a striking

Science

09 Jun 2026 18:23 PM 3 views

Venus And Jupiter Shine Together In Rare Sky Moment

Venus-Jupiter Conjunction 2026 Lights Up Evening Sky Venus and Jupiter appeared close together in the western sky, creating a bright celestial view for skywatchers on June 9. Venus And Jupiter Create a Stunning Evening View Skywatchers witnessed a beautiful celestial moment as Venus and Jupiter appeared close together in the evening sky. The two bright planets were seen sinking towards the western horizon, creating a striking

Science

FIFA World Cup 2026 India Broadcast Confirmed As Zee Bags Major Rights Deal

Zee Confirms FIFA World Cup 2026 Broadcast For Indian Fans Indian football fans finally have an answer as Zee secures the FIFA World Cup 2026 India broadcast rights just days before the tournament begins. Zee Brings Big Relief For Football Fans The suspense over the FIFA World Cup 2026 broadcast in India has finally ended. Zee Entertainment has secured the India rights for the tournament, giving football fans clarity on where

Sports & Games

01 Jun 2026 18:04 PM 1 views

FIFA World Cup 2026 India Broadcast Confirmed As Zee Bags Major Rights Deal

Zee Confirms FIFA World Cup 2026 Broadcast For Indian Fans Indian football fans finally have an answer as Zee secures the FIFA World Cup 2026 India broadcast rights just days before the tournament begins. Zee Brings Big Relief For Football Fans The suspense over the FIFA World Cup 2026 broadcast in India has finally ended. Zee Entertainment has secured the India rights for the tournament, giving football fans clarity on where

Sports & Games

June Money Changes: LPG Hike, UPI Checks And Tax Deadline May Affect Your Budget

Key June Financial Updates Consumers Should Know June has brought a fresh set of money-related changes that may affect households, taxpayers, small businesses and digital payment users. From commercial LPG rates to UPI security checks, these updates can impact monthly budgets and financial planning. LPG Price Hike Hits Businesses Commercial LPG cylinder prices have incr

Finance & Economics

01 Jun 2026 17:23 PM 1 views

June Money Changes: LPG Hike, UPI Checks And Tax Deadline May Affect Your Budget

Key June Financial Updates Consumers Should Know June has brought a fresh set of money-related changes that may affect households, taxpayers, small businesses and digital payment users. From commercial LPG rates to UPI security checks, these updates can impact monthly budgets and financial planning. LPG Price Hike Hits Businesses Commercial LPG cylinder prices have incr

Finance & Economics

New AC for Extreme Indian Summers Developed with IIT Delhi, Pilot Project Succeeds

An Indian climate-tech startup, in collaboration with IIT Delhi, has developed a next-generation air conditioner designed to operate efficiently in extreme temperatures of up to 50°C. The innovation comes as rising heat levels across India drive urgent demand for more reliable and energy-efficient cooling solutions. The newly developed system has suc

Science

28 Apr 2026 14:02 PM 58 views

New AC for Extreme Indian Summers Developed with IIT Delhi, Pilot Project Succeeds

An Indian climate-tech startup, in collaboration with IIT Delhi, has developed a next-generation air conditioner designed to operate efficiently in extreme temperatures of up to 50°C. The innovation comes as rising heat levels across India drive urgent demand for more reliable and energy-efficient cooling solutions. The newly developed system has suc

Science

Articles

NASA Chennai ISS Photo Shows City Lights Glowing Along Bay Of Bengal

IIT Madras And IISc Solve 70-Year Chemistry Puzzle With Carbon-Free Molecule

Maharashtra Clears Rs 1,722 Crore Sea Link Connector Project

T20 World Cup 2026: What India Must Do to Reach the Semifinal

BTS Announces 2026 World Tour, Chicago Dates Confirmed

July 1 Financial Changes: ITR Deadline, Aadhaar Update, Passport Fees And Credit Card Rules

IPL Highlight: Siraj’s Opening Burst Shatters PBKS Top Order

NEET-UG 2026 Retest Date Announced, Admit Cards To Release On June 14

Rajya Sabha Elections 2026: Voting Begins Today, Key Contests in Three States

Twisha Sharma Death Case: CBI Uses Tunnel View To Recreate Final Hours

#upi

WhatsApp usernames update: privacy gain or new security risk in India

WhatsApp usernames update: privacy gain or new security risk in India

FIFA World Cup 2026 Begins With Biggest-Ever Format

FIFA World Cup 2026 Begins With Biggest-Ever Format

Venus And Jupiter Shine Together In Rare Sky Moment

Venus And Jupiter Shine Together In Rare Sky Moment

FIFA World Cup 2026 India Broadcast Confirmed As Zee Bags Major Rights Deal

FIFA World Cup 2026 India Broadcast Confirmed As Zee Bags Major Rights Deal

June Money Changes: LPG Hike, UPI Checks And Tax Deadline May Affect Your Budget

June Money Changes: LPG Hike, UPI Checks And Tax Deadline May Affect Your Budget

New AC for Extreme Indian Summers Developed with IIT Delhi, Pilot Project Succeeds

New AC for Extreme Indian Summers Developed with IIT Delhi, Pilot Project Succeeds

NASA Chennai ISS Photo Shows City Lights Glowing Along Bay Of Bengal

IIT Madras And IISc Solve 70-Year Chemistry Puzzle With Carbon-Free Molecule

Maharashtra Clears Rs 1,722 Crore Sea Link Connector Project

T20 World Cup 2026: What India Must Do to Reach the Semifinal

BTS Announces 2026 World Tour, Chicago Dates Confirmed

July 1 Financial Changes: ITR Deadline, Aadhaar Update, Passport Fees And Credit Card Rules

IPL Highlight: Siraj’s Opening Burst Shatters PBKS Top Order

NEET-UG 2026 Retest Date Announced, Admit Cards To Release On June 14

Rajya Sabha Elections 2026: Voting Begins Today, Key Contests in Three States

Twisha Sharma Death Case: CBI Uses Tunnel View To Recreate Final Hours

Popular Locations

Sign In

NASA Chennai ISS Photo Shows City Lights Glowing Along Bay Of Bengal

IIT Madras And IISc Solve 70-Year Chemistry Puzzle With Carbon-Free Molecule

Maharashtra Clears Rs 1,722 Crore Sea Link Connector Project

T20 World Cup 2026: What India Must Do to Reach the Semifinal

BTS Announces 2026 World Tour, Chicago Dates Confirmed

July 1 Financial Changes: ITR Deadline, Aadhaar Update, Passport Fees And Credit Card Rules

IPL Highlight: Siraj’s Opening Burst Shatters PBKS Top Order

NEET-UG 2026 Retest Date Announced, Admit Cards To Release On June 14

Rajya Sabha Elections 2026: Voting Begins Today, Key Contests in Three States

Twisha Sharma Death Case: CBI Uses Tunnel View To Recreate Final Hours

#upi

WhatsApp usernames update: privacy gain or new security risk in India

WhatsApp usernames update: privacy gain or new security risk in India

FIFA World Cup 2026 Begins With Biggest-Ever Format

FIFA World Cup 2026 Begins With Biggest-Ever Format

Venus And Jupiter Shine Together In Rare Sky Moment

Venus And Jupiter Shine Together In Rare Sky Moment

FIFA World Cup 2026 India Broadcast Confirmed As Zee Bags Major Rights Deal

FIFA World Cup 2026 India Broadcast Confirmed As Zee Bags Major Rights Deal

June Money Changes: LPG Hike, UPI Checks And Tax Deadline May Affect Your Budget

June Money Changes: LPG Hike, UPI Checks And Tax Deadline May Affect Your Budget

New AC for Extreme Indian Summers Developed with IIT Delhi, Pilot Project Succeeds

New AC for Extreme Indian Summers Developed with IIT Delhi, Pilot Project Succeeds

NASA Chennai ISS Photo Shows City Lights Glowing Along Bay Of Bengal

IIT Madras And IISc Solve 70-Year Chemistry Puzzle With Carbon-Free Molecule

Maharashtra Clears Rs 1,722 Crore Sea Link Connector Project

T20 World Cup 2026: What India Must Do to Reach the Semifinal

BTS Announces 2026 World Tour, Chicago Dates Confirmed

July 1 Financial Changes: ITR Deadline, Aadhaar Update, Passport Fees And Credit Card Rules

IPL Highlight: Siraj’s Opening Burst Shatters PBKS Top Order

NEET-UG 2026 Retest Date Announced, Admit Cards To Release On June 14

Rajya Sabha Elections 2026: Voting Begins Today, Key Contests in Three States

Twisha Sharma Death Case: CBI Uses Tunnel View To Recreate Final Hours

Popular Locations