Centre questions Telegram and Signal over username features amid fraud concerns

Indian government authorities have intensified their examination of major messaging platforms Telegram and Signal, specifically focusing on how their username features operate. The regulatory action follows similar inquiries directed at WhatsApp, as officials seek to understand potential vulnerabilities that could facilitate fraud and impersonation schemes across these services.

The Centre is demanding clarity from both Telegram and Signal on their username functionalities and the security protocols in place to prevent misuse. Telegram has already begun responding to government queries about its current system, explaining how usernames work on its platform. These username features allow users to create custom identifiers, which have reportedly been exploited in various fraudulent activities.

The government's heightened focus reflects growing concerns about cybercrime trends in India. Officials are particularly worried about how easily bad actors can impersonate legitimate users or businesses through username accounts, leading to financial fraud, scams, and misinformation. The scrutiny aims to establish whether these platforms are adequately equipped to prevent such misuse and ensure user accountability.

The move signals the Centre's broader effort to regulate digital communication platforms and make them accountable for safety breaches. By questioning multiple messaging apps simultaneously, authorities are pushing for industry-wide standards that balance user privacy with security requirements. This could potentially lead to new guidelines or mandatory features across all major messaging services operating in India.

Expert observers note this reflects the government's increasing intervention in regulating tech platforms following multiple cybercrime incidents. The outcomes of these inquiries may influence how messaging apps design their username systems and implement verification mechanisms to prevent fraudulent use.