Key facts
- India has requested WhatsApp halt the rollout of its new 'usernames' feature.
- The government cited concerns over user anonymity.
- WhatsApp must explain the feature and complete consultations before proceeding.
India's government has asked WhatsApp to halt the rollout of its planned 'usernames' feature, citing concerns over user anonymity. The government has requested that the messaging platform explain the new feature and complete consultations before proceeding with its implementation. This move indicates a cautious approach by Indian authorities regarding new privacy-impacting functionalities on widely used digital platforms.