Somalia has raised concerns with Meta over WhatsApp’s planned username feature, warning that allowing users to communicate without displaying phone numbers could undermine efforts to combat terrorism, fraud, and organized crime. Communications Minister Ahmed Osman Dirie said authorities rely on verified phone numbers to investigate criminal networks, including al-Shabab, which has used WhatsApp for extortion and propaganda. The government argues that anonymous usernames could weaken digital traceability in a country where mobile money dominates everyday transactions. However, Meta maintains the feature is not yet live, will still require phone number registration, and includes safeguards against scams. If the feature is implemented, it will grant privacy advocates and ordinary users greater control over their identities. For security agencies, it could mean the loss of an important investigative tool.
BBC