WhatsApp’s switch to a new identification system was announced this week. It is not yet being rolled out widely, but some people can already reserve usernames within the app.
The messaging service has grown into one of the most widely used platforms worldwide, with more than 3 billion active users. In Portugal, it leads the market with an 89.9% penetration rate among social media users and is also the platform with the highest level of daily use, according to Marktest data.
WhatsApp usernames: what is changing
WhatsApp is now preparing to update one of its founding rules: it will no longer require you to share your phone number to start a conversation. Meta said this week that it has begun enabling username reservations, ahead of the feature’s global launch. The option is already live for some accounts and lets users pick a unique identifier, similar to what you can do on Telegram or on social networks such as Instagram.
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Privacy and security: why the change matters
This update addresses a growing concern about privacy. For years, WhatsApp effectively worked as an extension of your SIM card, meaning that speaking to someone typically involved exposing your personal phone number. With usernames, that exposure is no longer necessary. Instead, people can contact you via a public identifier, helping to lower the risk of spam, scams, or digital harassment.
WhatsApp has also been increasingly used for fraud, including the scam commonly known as "Hello Dad, Hello Mum", which relies on mass outreach to phone numbers. However, it is not yet clear whether the new approach will prevent this type of scheme.
How the new system will work
Meta says it will not introduce a public, searchable directory. To reach someone, you will need to know their exact username, adding an extra layer of security and privacy. WhatsApp is also introducing a “username key” - an optional key that acts as an additional security mechanism when making first contact.
A phone number will still be required to set up an account, but it will no longer be visible to someone who starts a chat with you via your username.
How to reserve a username on WhatsApp
1) Open your account settings
Go into the app and tap Settings (the cog icon). This is where Meta is providing access to the new feature.
2) Look for the “Username” option
In Settings, open Account. If the feature is already enabled for your profile, you will see a new Username section. The rollout is still gradual.
3) Choose and reserve your name
Type the identifier you want to use. WhatsApp will automatically check whether it is available. As Meta expects millions of reservations, it may be worth securing the same name you use on other platforms (Instagram, Facebook, etc.).
4) Save and activate
Confirm your choice. From that point on, other people can contact you without seeing your phone number, using only your username - which strengthens privacy and security.
By Fátima Caçador
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