Somalia raises security concerns over WhatsApp username feature
Somalia has urged Meta to address security concerns surrounding WhatsApp’s planned username feature, arguing that the change could make it harder to track criminals and extremist groups operating online.
The proposed update, expected to be rolled out globally in the coming months, will allow users to communicate using usernames instead of sharing their phone numbers. While the feature is intended to strengthen privacy, Somali authorities fear it could reduce the ability of law enforcement agencies to identify suspects.
Communications and Technology Minister Ahmed Osman Dirie said the government had already raised the issue with Meta, stressing that Somalia’s security environment differs from many other countries due to its long-running fight against al-Shabab militants.
According to him, phone numbers currently play a crucial role in tracing criminal activity, including fraud, extortion and terrorist operations. He warned that usernames that can be changed or hidden could create new challenges for investigators.
The concerns are particularly significant in Somalia, where mobile money services are widely used and digital platforms have previously been exploited by criminal groups. In recent years, authorities have shut down multiple WhatsApp groups allegedly linked to al-Shabab and disabled thousands of phone lines connected to suspected illegal activities.
Meta has maintained that the feature is not yet active and that WhatsApp accounts will still require phone numbers. The company also says additional protections are being developed to prevent scams and misuse.
Somalia is not alone in its concerns. India has also reportedly asked WhatsApp to delay the rollout until authorities are satisfied that adequate safeguards are in place.
Technology experts say the new feature could improve user privacy by reducing the need to share personal contact information. However, they note that governments are seeking assurances that criminals will not be able to exploit the system to conceal their identities.
The debate has highlighted a growing global challenge: how to protect users’ privacy online while ensuring authorities can still investigate fraud, cybercrime and security threats when necessary.
Source: BBC
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