WhatsApp has addressed privacy concerns surrounding its upcoming usernames feature, assuring users that the system will not include a public directory or username suggestions.
The clarification follows speculation on social media that the feature would allow anyone to search for usernames and send messages to their owners.
Responding to those concerns, WhatsApp said there will be “no directory or suggestions,” meaning users will only be able to contact someone if they already know that person’s exact username.
The company also revealed that users will have the option to enable a “username key,” an additional privacy measure that must be provided before others can initiate contact.
The usernames feature is intended to let people connect on WhatsApp without sharing their phone numbers, offering an added layer of privacy.
WhatsApp has not yet announced when the feature will be made available to users.
