Meta to Restrict High-Profile WhatsApp Usernames to Verified Owners

Meta Platforms Inc. said Wednesday it will allow high-profile names to be claimed only by legitimate owners on WhatsApp's new username feature. The change is part of the company's effort to counter impersonation.

WhatsApp introduced usernames as an alternative to sharing phone numbers. The feature lets users create a handle that others can use to message them without revealing their number. Meta Platforms Inc. said the new restriction aims to protect public figures and organizations from fake accounts using their names. The company did not provide a timeline for when the restriction will take effect.