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WhatsApp is introducing a new usernames feature that will enable users to connect without revealing their phone numbers, marking a major step toward improving privacy on the messaging platform.
The company announced that users can start reserving their preferred usernames this week before the feature is rolled out globally later this year.
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According to WhatsApp, the update offers users an alternative way to communicate while keeping their personal phone numbers hidden.
“Your phone number is personal, and there are times when you may want to connect with someone without sharing it. That’s why we’re bringing usernames to WhatsApp,” the company said.
To reserve a username, users are required to update to the latest version of the app and navigate to Settings > Account > Username. The process takes only a few moments, allowing users to secure their preferred usernames ahead of the full launch.
READ MORE: WhatsApp Rolls Out Powerful New Scam Alert
The introduction of usernames brings WhatsApp in line with other messaging platforms that use unique handles instead of phone numbers, giving users greater flexibility and enhanced privacy when interacting with new contacts.
In a separate security enhancement, WhatsApp has also begun rolling out a feature designed to help users identify suspicious contacts before opening conversations.
Available on both Android and iOS devices, the new feature displays a warning screen whenever a user attempts to start or open a chat with an unsaved phone number.
According to WABetaInfo, the warning provides users with useful details about the unknown contact, encouraging them to verify whether the interaction appears legitimate before responding.
The update strengthens WhatsApp’s ongoing efforts to combat scams and impersonation attempts, which often rely on tricking users into sharing verification codes or approving requests that grant fraudsters access to their accounts.
The new warning system is intended to interrupt these scams before users unknowingly compromise their accounts.
WABetaInfo noted that the feature makes it more difficult for scammers to manipulate users, as WhatsApp now steps in before a verification code or approval request can be used to gain unauthorized access.
Additionally, the warning screen provides information such as the sender’s country code and whether the user shares any mutual groups with the unknown contact, helping users make informed decisions before engaging in a conversation.
