After WhatsApp, now Telegram & Signal: Govt tightens grip on chat apps over 'username feature' scams

 A day after directing Meta-owned WhatsApp to pause the rollout of its proposed username feature in India, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has now issued similar notices to Telegram and Signal over their username systems, widening its scrutiny of messaging platforms.

According to government sources,Telegram and Signal have been asked to explain the safeguards they have in place to prevent fraud, impersonation, phishing and other forms of online abuse linked to username-based messaging. The platforms have been given three days to respond.

The government's concern is that usernames, which allow users to connect without sharing their phone numbers, could make it easier for scammers to impersonate individuals, carry out phishing attacks and facilitate so-called "digital arrest" scams. Officials have also questioned Telegram on why the username feature should continue to be available on the platform.

The move follows the Centre's notice to WhatsApp earlier this week, directing the Meta-owned platform to halt the rollout of its planned username feature until consultations with the government are completed. The government warned that the feature could materially increase cyber fraud and impersonation attacks, and asked Meta to explain why action should not be initiated under the Information Technology Act and related rules.

While WhatsApp has only announced its username feature, Telegram already offers usernames by default and Signal allows users to create optional usernames. Government sources said the scrutiny of Telegram and Signal is aimed at understanding how the platforms are mitigating the risks associated with anonymous communication.

WhatsApp has defended its proposed feature, saying it includes multiple safeguards against scams and impersonation, including protections for high-profile accounts and limits on unsolicited contact. As of Friday, Telegram and Signal had not publicly responded to the notices.

The latest action reflects the government's broader push to tighten oversight of digital platforms and strengthen user safety amid rising concerns over cyber fraud and online impersonation.