SynopsisIt has ​​directed Meta to furnish a detailed explanation of the feature within three days. The company has been asked not to roll out the feature until consultation on the matter is over, sources told ET.APThe government has issued a notice to Meta, asking the tech giant to pause the rollout of its new username feature in India.In a notice issued to the WhatsApp parent, the government has sought a detailed explanation on the feature within three days and asked to hold on the release till consultations are over, sources told ET.This comes hours after reports surfaced that the Centre is exploring legal options to restrict WhatsApp's proposed username feature, amid concerns that the feature could increase the risk of impersonation and identity fraud.The feature, expected to roll out later this year, will allow users to connect using usernames instead of sharing their phone numbers. While experts say this reduces exposure of personal phone numbers and lowers risks such as SIM-swapping and contact scraping, they warn that the move also raises fresh questions over data sharing, platform integration and identity fraud.There are also concerns among users about data sharing with other Meta apps. Meta, however, has brushed off the concerns. "When the feature launches later this year, usernames will not change anything about how accounts centre works," a Meta spokesperson said, adding that linking WhatsApp with Facebook or Instagram through Accounts Center would remain entirely optional.On impersonation, the company said it has built "layered protections" into the system. Existing Facebook and Instagram usernames will be reserved for their owners during the reservation period, while usernames of public figures, celebrities, government entities and verified Meta accounts will remain protected. ...moreElevate your knowledge and leadership skills at a cost cheaper than your daily tea.Subscribe Now