WhatsApp has announced a new feature allowing users to identify themselves with a username instead of their phone number. This update aims to enhance privacy by preventing the immediate sharing of personal numbers upon first contact with others, groups, or businesses.
Consumer rights group DECO PROteste views the feature as positive for improving privacy and personal data control. However, they warn of potential identity theft risks, particularly if the chosen username matches that on Instagram, a platform also owned by Meta.
To mitigate these risks, DECO PROteste advises users to make their Instagram profiles private and select a different username for WhatsApp. Enabling two-factor authentication and keeping privacy settings updated are also recommended security practices.
