WhatsApp Introduces Usernames to Protect Phone Numbers
WhatsApp has begun rolling out a new feature that allows users to create a unique username, enabling them to communicate without revealing their phone number. This move, long available on competitors like Signal and Telegram, aims to enhance user privacy and security. According to Martin Shelton, deputy director of digital security at Freedom of the Press Foundation, phone numbers are often linked to multiple accounts, making them a prime target for hijacking. Kevin Tackett, CEO of Secure Ideas, added that phone numbers can be used to search data broker sites and facilitate scams, such as impersonating a bank.
How to Set Up Your WhatsApp Username
To use the feature, update WhatsApp to the latest version, then navigate to Settings > Account > Username. Users can also opt to use their Instagram or Facebook username for consistency. However, common names may already be taken, so acting quickly is advised.
Choosing the Right Username for Your Needs
Harlo Holmes, chief security programs officer at Freedom of the Press Foundation, suggests considering your WhatsApp usage. For professional purposes, using your real name helps identify you. For privacy, avoid revealing details like birth years or Social Security numbers. Holmes herself uses her full name on WhatsApp for public reasons, while keeping Instagram private. She warns of potential impersonation, noting that famous names like “cz_binance” were already reserved by others.
Privacy Limitations and Benefits
While usernames hide your phone number from strangers, Meta still knows your identity. “Fundamentally, there’s no obscuring your identity from Meta,” Holmes said. Despite this, the feature is valuable for those facing harassment or doxxing, offering peace of mind by allowing communication without exposing a phone number.
