WhatsApp is introducing a new username system, promising to eliminate the need to share your cell phone number to start conversations or include participants in groups. This update represents a significant change in the way users interact on the platform.
Although the full implementation of the functionality is still in progress, as of last Monday, the 29th, the application has already made the username reservation option available to its vast base of more than 3 billion global users. This is the initial step towards the new experience.
This reservation phase constitutes the prelude to, in the near future, WhatsApp allowing users to connect and interact through these unique identifiers, replacing the dependence on the phone number. The measure aims to simplify the addition of new contacts.
The introduction of this feature raised several questions among the user community, mainly about the convenience of adopting the same nickname used on other social networks and the effectiveness of new security measures against unsolicited communications. The platform seeks to clarify these points.
Understand the functionality of usernames on WhatsApp
The username mechanism in WhatsApp makes it possible to create a unique identifier for each account, such as @YourNickname, ensuring that the user’s phone number remains hidden from those who do not have it in their contacts. This increases the privacy of individuals.
With the username implementation, people who are not part of your contact list will not have access to your phone number when they receive your messages or calls. The change aims to improve data protection.
The reservation of usernames is already active, however, the ability to locate other people using these identifiers will be released in a future stage, later this year, as communicated by WhatsApp. Functionality will be expanded gradually.
It is important to note that platforms like Telegram have had this feature for a long time, even offering the possibility of creating personalized links to make it easier to find accounts. WhatsApp’s novelty, therefore, aligns with trends from other communicators.
Steps to set your username on the app
At this time, users cannot yet view third-party usernames or initiate contact using these identifiers. Full interaction will come in a later launch phase.
However, WhatsApp has advanced the reservation so that everyone has the opportunity to secure the username they want before full release. The anticipation seeks to avoid competition for popular names.
- To secure your username, follow these guidelines within the app:
- Open the “Settings” section.
- Click on “Account”.
- Select the “Username” option.
- Enter the nickname you want.
- Click “Save”.
Removing the identifier: what happens when you delete your username
O WhatsApp adverte que, ao apagar um nome de usuário, ele será disponibilizado para outros usuários e poderá ser escolhido por qualquer pessoa. Additionally, your phone number will once again be visible in conversations and calls as soon as the functionality is fully active.
- To remove your username, follow the procedure detailed below:
- Open the “Settings” section.
- Click on “Account”.
- Select the “Username” option.
- Click “Edit”.
- Choose between “Delete username” to remove or “Change username” to select a new one.
- Confirm your choice by clicking “Delete”.
Strategies for choosing your username: unify or differentiate?
The decision about using the same username on platforms like Instagram on WhatsApp depends on the level of visibility you want for your account. It is a choice that reflects the purpose of use.
If the objective is to keep communication restricted to a circle of friends and acquaintances, the recommendation is to opt for a unique username that is different from those used on other social networks such as Instagram, X and TikTok. This helps preserve privacy.
On the other hand, professionals like content creators and small business owners can benefit from adopting uniform usernames that are easy to recognize for their followers and customers. Consistency makes identification easier.
If the preference is to maintain the same identifier on different platforms, but with the intention of controlling access to specific people, activating security keys is the recommended solution. This additional tool gives you more control.
Security measures: configuring keys to block strangers
By default, anyone who knows your username will be able to initiate contact on WhatsApp. To mitigate the receipt of unwanted messages and calls, the application implemented a key system, which act as four-digit codes to authorize the start of a conversation.
This access key is generated by WhatsApp itself and can be changed at any time, making it difficult for unauthorized individuals to approach it. Existing contacts, people who already have your number, and those you already interact with will not need this password.
- To set up a security key and prevent strangers from contacting you on WhatsApp, follow the steps below:
- Open the “Settings” section.
- Click on “Account”.
- Select the “Username” option.
- Click “Contact me by username”.
- Select the “People who know my key” option.
- Confirm with “Save key”.
To ensure the protection of children and teenagers, the application will automatically activate the security key for users under the age of 18, establishing an extra layer of privacy and control. This measure is an important reinforcement of security.
Challenges in identity verification and concerns about fraud
Initially, there will be no method for users to verify the authenticity of a contact who communicates using only the username. The absence of a validation mechanism can generate uncertainty.
WhatsApp has not yet announced the implementation of verification features, such as the blue seals present on other platforms, which give greater credibility to profiles and help differentiate official accounts from imitators. The company needs to address this gap.
India, for example, requested the postponement of the launch of the feature in the country, expressing fears that the functionality could intensify the problem of online fraud, a growing challenge in digital environments. This global concern underscores the importance of robust security systems for new digital identities.
In response, WhatsApp ensured that highly relevant names, such as those of public figures and renowned companies, can be claimed by their legitimate owners, aiming to curb identity forgery. This measure is crucial to maintain user trust.
