SGWhatsApp is introducing a new privacy feature that allows users to hide their phone numbers and use preferred usernames instead. Ahead of the 2026 rollout, the platform has already reserved high-profile usernames such as those of Singapore's Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, Health Minister Ong Ye Kung, and Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan. This move aims to prevent impersonation by blocking unauthorized users from claiming these names. The feature includes protections against 'lookalike' variations of names, such as @ongyekungg, which could be used by scammers. Users can begin reserving usernames now, with assignments based on first-come-first-served principles. The change is intended to enhance privacy by reducing the exposure of personal phone numbers, especially for businesses and individuals interacting with third parties.
Bias read (Center): The article presents the development of a privacy feature by WhatsApp as a neutral technological update aimed at enhancing user privacy and preventing impersonation. While it mentions specific Singaporean politicians, the focus remains on the technical implementation and benefits of the feature, not
