WhatsApp has launched the profile username feature to help users be creative and change their usernames. But at the same time it creates a problem when someone tries to use the username using the names of national leaders or international personalities. To avoid this, WhatsApp blocked users from using Singapore political leaders' names as usernames, such as @KShanmugam and @LawrenceWong.
 |
| WhatsApp Restricted High Profile Usernames: Why?: RavStation |
WhatsApp Restricted High Profile Usernames:
WhatsApp is already flowing with high-profile usernames. It is a necessary step to protect the privacy and integrity of high-profile individuals. WhatsApp launched a username feature to let users choose unique handles.
How to choose a WhatsApp username:
- Go to settings.
- Click on “Profile Photo."
- Click on “Create Username” or "Reserve Username.”
- Type your unique handle. It should be between 3 and 35 characters.
- You can also link your Facebook and Instagram accounts to use the same username on both profiles.
Why a WhatsApp username is an important feature:
- Privacy: This way WhatsApp protects your privacy. It hides your phone number, and people can send messages using your username.
- Verification and Security: WhatsApp also introduced an extra pin or key for users to send you messages. This way it prevents spam messages.
Why It Is Good to Restrict High Profile Usernames:
The restriction to choose a high-profile username is helpful in fighting spam and phishing. This way, no one can claim to be a high-profile person just by using his name as a username. Only the high-profile person can use his name.
General users can only use their unique names, which are allowed by the Instagram system.
WhatsApp also does not want to flood the platform with lookalike accounts. It is a way to stop imposters.
This restriction also helps in curbing scams.
Scams related to High Profile Usernames:
It is observed that high-profile names have been used in online scams.
Here are the most common types of Instagram scams:
- Digital Arrest: A scammer pretends to be a high-ranking law enforcement official and tells you that you are under digital arrest.
- Phishing & Identity Spoofing: Fraudsters set up handles that look identical to government agencies, banks, and financial institutions to steal your personal information.
- Financial Fraud: Scammers choose to target users who are unaware of online frauds. It is best to keep digital identities hidden.
Which Username You Should Choose:
It is an ideal practice to choose the same username that you have on Facebook. You can also choose the name of the brand, business, or agency you are representing.
If you are running a business through Instagram, then you should always choose the same tone and name as your brand.
It will help users quickly identify what your account is all about and who should choose to engage with your content.
Conclusion:
WhatsApp has rolled out username features. Yet some countries like Singapore, India, and Somalia restricted it. Instagram will block any attempt to guess a username. It also limits how many messages a new account can send.
