Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android AuthorityTL;DRWhatsApp is defending its upcoming username feature after the Indian government reportedly raised concerns about fraud and impersonation.India wants answers before rollout, fearing usernames could make it easier for scammers to hide their identities and impersonate people or organizations.WhatsApp says protections are already built in, including reserved usernames for public figures, government entities, celebrities, and verified Meta accounts.WhatsApp is pushing back against rising concerns over its upcoming username feature after the Indian government allegedly asked the company to stop its rollout and explain how it plans to prevent fraud and impersonation. The response follows warnings from officials that allowing people to connect without sharing phone numbers could create new opportunities for scammers and cybercriminals. Officials had warned that allowing people to connect without sharing phone numbers could create new opportunities for scammers and cybercriminals.The probe comes after reports that India’s Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology asked WhatsApp to delay the rollout of the feature until consultations are done and sought a detailed explanation within three days (via Asian News International on X). Officials fear that usernames could make it easier for bad actors to impersonate people, companies, or government agencies and then hide behind anonymous identities, the report says.