WhatsApp may show Facebook and Instagram usernames for unknown numbers
The messaging app, WhatsApp, is developing a feature to display Meta-verified Facebook or Instagram usernames when you search for unknown phone numbers, aiming to improve contact identification.
WhatsApp is reportedly testing a feature that will display Meta-verified usernames (from Facebook or Instagram) when users search for phone numbers they haven’t saved. According to WABetaInfo, this is currently in development for iOS.
When a searched number matches an active WhatsApp account, the app displays the associated username, along with limited profile details, depending on the user’s privacy settings. Importantly, if someone searches by username, their phone number remains hidden to protect privacy.
WhatsApp is also reportedly allowing users to reserve the same username they use on Facebook or Instagram. Verification of ownership happens through Meta’s Accounts Centre, ensuring a unified identity across Meta platforms.
However, this update is part of a broader push to enhance privacy: WhatsApp has previously announced that it will allow users to replace their phone numbers with usernames, enabling chats without revealing personal numbers.
From a digital-policy perspective, the change raises important issues about identity, discoverability and data integration across Meta’s apps. It may make it easier to identify and connect with unfamiliar contacts, but it also concentrates more of our personal data under Meta’s own digital identity infrastructure.
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