Algeria seeks written assurances from Meta on WhatsApp username feature

ALGIERS, Algeria — Algeria's Ministry of Post and Telecommunications has sent an official letter to Meta requesting clarification on WhatsApp's new privacy feature that allows users to communicate using usernames instead of their phone numbers. The ministry said it does not object to the feature as an additional privacy and user-experience option, but stressed that all active accounts in the country must remain linked to phone numbers registered and verified with local operators. Among the ministry's demands are a written commitment that accounts will continue to be tied to document-based phone numbers, a prohibition on opening or maintaining accounts using only a username, and the submission of an implementation plan and timeline if technical adjustments specific to the Algerian market are required. Meta has been asked to provide responses addressing these points. The ministry said the requests aim to strengthen digital trust, accountability, and compliance with Algerian law, and to support efforts against fraud, identity theft and cybercrime. WhatsApp is widely used in Algeria for communication, e-commerce and transportation services, and the new feature has drawn public debate. No further details on Meta's response or any regulatory timeline were immediately available.