The Indian government has expanded its action against messaging apps after WhatsApp, with Telegram and Signal now receiving notices over concerns related to their username features. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has asked both platforms to explain what steps they have taken to prevent fraud, impersonation and cybercrime linked to usernames, according to a PTI report quoting government sources. The move comes just a day after the Centre asked WhatsApp to pause the rollout of its own username feature until discussions with the government are completed.Â
The government has especially asked Telegram to explain why it should be allowed to continue offering usernames and what security measures are in place to stop people from misusing the feature. Officials are worried because usernames let people chat without sharing their phone numbers. The government believes this could make it easier for scammers and fraudsters to hide their identity and cheat users.
What Notice Did The Government Send To WhatsApp And What Did Meta Say?
A day before sending notices to Telegram and Signal, the Centre issued a notice to Meta over WhatsApp’s planned username feature. The government said the feature could lead to more online fraud, phishing scams, digital arrest scams and impersonation because users would be able to communicate without showing their phone numbers. It asked WhatsApp to stop rolling out the feature until discussions with the government are completed. The notice also asked Meta to explain why action should not be taken under the Information Technology Act if the feature increases cybercrime.Â
In response, WhatsApp said it has added several safety measures. These include reserving usernames for government organisations, public figures, celebrities, verified Meta accounts and other well known personalities so only the real owners can use them. The company also said it blocks usernames that closely resemble famous or verified accounts to reduce impersonation.
The main concern is that usernames allow users to communicate without revealing their phone numbers. According to the government, this could make it easier for scammers and cybercriminals to create fake identities and avoid being identified. India is WhatsApp’s biggest market with more than 500 million users, making the issue especially important for the government.
What History Does Telegram Have With Indian Regulators?
This is not the first time Telegram has faced action from Indian authorities. The platform was temporarily banned in India until June 22 after the government accused it of failing to stop the spread of leaked and fake NEET-UG question papers, misleading content and other fraudulent material related to the medical entrance exam. Telegram’s services were restored after the week long ban ended.
Also Read:Â Is Telegram Working In India Again After NEET UG 2026 Re-Exam Ban Window Ended? Check Latest Update
