Centre Plans Uniform Rules for WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal After Username Row

July 11, 2026

New Delhi: The Centre is preparing a common regulatory framework for messaging platforms such as WhatsApp, Telegram and Signal after concerns emerged over WhatsApp’s proposed username feature. The move aims to ensure that all messaging services follow the same standards for user safety, identity verification and fraud prevention, rather than allowing different rules for different platforms.

Why the Government Is Taking Action

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has asked WhatsApp, Telegram and Signal to explain the safeguards built into their username-based communication systems. While WhatsApp and Telegram have submitted their responses, Signal is yet to respond, according to government sources.

Officials are concerned that usernames, while improving privacy by hiding phone numbers, could also make it easier for scammers to impersonate banks, government agencies, companies or even friends and relatives. This could lead to an increase in phishing attacks, digital arrest scams and financial fraud.

What Are the Proposed Uniform Rules?

Although the government has not released a draft policy yet, officials are reportedly working on common standards that would apply equally to all messaging platforms. These could include:

• Strong identity verification and anti-impersonation measures
• Uniform reporting and grievance mechanisms
• Better cooperation with law enforcement during investigations
• Standard safety features across messaging apps
• Common guidelines for introducing new user identity features

The government believes uniform regulations will prevent regulatory gaps where one platform has stricter safeguards than another.

WhatsApp Username Feature at the Centre of the Debate

WhatsApp’s proposed username feature would allow users to connect without sharing their mobile numbers, similar to Telegram and Signal. While privacy advocates say this is a welcome feature that protects personal phone numbers, the Centre fears it could make it harder to trace fraudsters who create fake identities. Following the government’s notice, WhatsApp has paused the rollout of the feature in India until consultations are completed.

What People Think

The proposed regulations have triggered mixed reactions.

Many users support the move, arguing that stricter verification could reduce fake accounts, online scams and impersonation, especially as cyber fraud cases continue to rise.

Privacy advocates, cybersecurity experts and digital rights groups, however, warn that any new rules should not weaken end-to-end encryption or compromise user privacy. They argue that messaging platforms should remain secure while introducing safeguards against misuse. Several experts have suggested that platforms can strengthen account verification without accessing private messages.

What Happens Next?

The Centre is examining responses submitted by WhatsApp and Telegram before deciding the next course of action. Any future framework is expected to apply uniformly to all major messaging platforms operating in India, ensuring consistent standards for privacy, security and accountability. Until then, WhatsApp’s username rollout in India remains on hold.