NEW DELHI, JUL 2 (PTI): The IT Ministry has widened its scrutiny of messaging platforms by issuing notices to Telegram and Signal over their username feature, following a similar notice to WhatsApp, sources said.
According to sources, the government has asked Telegram why it should be allowed to retain the username feature and sought details from both Telegram and Signal on measures taken to prevent fraud and impersonation.
On Wednesday, the Centre issued a notice to Meta over WhatsApp’s username feature, expressing concern that it could increase online fraud, phishing, digital arrest scams and impersonation attacks. It also directed WhatsApp to suspend the feature until consultations with the government are completed.
Meta has been asked to explain why action should not be initiated under the IT Act and related rules, while reminding WhatsApp of its due diligence obligations as a significant social media intermediary. WhatsApp defended the feature, saying it includes safeguards against scams and impersonation.
India is WhatsApp’s largest market, with over 500 million users. Telegram has also come under regulatory scrutiny in recent weeks over concerns related to fraud, impersonation and circulation of sensitive content. The government had temporarily banned Telegram and its associated web services until June 22 over alleged failure to curb the circulation of leaked and fake NEET examination papers and other misleading content. The platform resumed services after the week-long ban expired.
Friday, July 3, 2026