WhatsApp Launches Unique Usernames to Enhance Privacy Amid Cybersecurity Concerns

WhatsApp has introduced a significant update allowing users to create unique usernames, similar to Instagram and Telegram. This feature enables users to maintain privacy by avoiding sharing their phone numbers when contacting new people or businesses. The rollout is gradual worldwide, and users can set their usernames via the app’s settings under 'Account' and then 'Username'. Content creators and businesses can unify their identity across platforms by linking their usernames with Facebook or Instagram accounts through Meta integration. Additionally, users can add a unique key for extra security, requiring new contacts to enter this key to initiate communication.

Cybersecurity expert Osher Cohen, founder of YO SECURE, praised the update for enhancing privacy but warned about potential risks. He highlighted the possibility of identity theft, where hackers might create similar usernames and impersonate legitimate users, exploiting AI-generated convincing messages. Cohen emphasized that impersonation is already an issue on WhatsApp and the new feature could make it easier for cybercriminals.

To protect themselves, Cohen advised users to carefully verify usernames and profile pictures, think before clicking links or entering codes, and scrutinize messages for grammatical errors or unusual phrasing. He also recommended pausing before responding to suspicious messages, even if they appear to come from known contacts. The National Cyber Directorate continues to warn against clicking suspicious links or sharing personal information.

Looking ahead, Cohen predicts WhatsApp will eventually allow usage without a phone number, moving entirely to username-based identification. He compared this evolution to past platforms like ICQ and sees it as a natural step toward better privacy, reserving phone numbers solely for calls and SMS. Cohen noted WhatsApp’s dominant role in Israel compared to other countries, underscoring the importance of this update for Israeli users while urging caution in its use.