WhatsApp has pushed back against reports that users are hoarding high-profile usernames, clarifying that names tied to public figures can be claimed only by their verified owners. The Meta-owned platform issued a detailed FAQ addressing concerns as India’s government continues to examine the new username feature over fears of impersonation and fraud.

The username system, designed to let people connect without sharing phone numbers, has drawn criticism after several prominent individuals reported that variations of their names appeared unavailable during the reservation process. Former Delhi Deputy CM Manish Sisodia and MobiKwik co-founder Bipin Preet Singh were among those who raised alarms. WhatsApp called such claims misleading, stating that names of celebrities, government entities, and Meta-verified accounts have been pre-reserved so only legitimate owners can access them.

The clarification follows a formal notice from the Centre directing Meta to pause the rollout until consultations are complete. Officials worry the feature could ease phishing, digital arrest scams, and other impersonation-driven fraud, and have asked Meta to detail the safeguards in place, citing its obligations as a significant social media intermediary under the IT Act.

To reassure users, WhatsApp emphasized that usernames will remain optional and won’t be searchable by strangers. Linking a verified Instagram or Facebook account may allow users to claim matching usernames as an added layer of authentication. The company also said it will actively monitor reports and account blocks to catch impersonation attempts before the feature sees a wider rollout in India.