WhatsApp's new privacy update will let you hide your phone number — how to enable
The Meta-owned chat app is rolling out the ability to have a username added to your account. This will let you keep your account much more private, especially if you're contacting someone new for the first time.
WhatsApp said in a blog post: "When someone new walks into your life — a classmate, a neighbor, someone you meet at an event — sharing a phone number can feel like a big step. That’s because a phone number is personal and it’s tied to so many parts of your life. Sometimes you just want to chat without handing over your digits.
"This is also true for group conversations. You want to join the parent chat for the soccer team, but you’re not ready to give your phone number to people you’ve never met."
Once you've enabled your username, new contacts and businesses won't see your phone number when you message them.
Meta first confirmed plans to introduce usernames back in late 2024. Eagle eyes also spotted early testing of the new feature this past spring.
Since WhatsApp is used by over three billion people globally, it's anticipated that popular usernames will go quickly. That's why early reservations are available now, giving you a fair shot at grabbing your preferred choice.
Reserving your spot takes just seconds. Head to Settings > Account > Username on the latest version of the app.
Creators, small businesses, and organisations can also claim their existing Instagram or Facebook username on WhatsApp, which is ideal if you want to maintain a consistent online presence.
And if you're stuck for ideas, the chat app has also built a username generator tool to help you find something that works.
WhatsApp has also built several safeguards into this new system to keep things secure.
There's no public directory where people can browse through usernames looking for someone to message. You'll need to know the exact username to find anyone – no suggestions or search results to scroll through.
For those wanting an extra layer of protection, there's an optional username key feature you'll be able to enable. This is similar to having a second password – people will need both your username and this key to reach you for the first time.
The username feature will roll out gradually over the coming months, and WhatsApp will send you a notification when usernames officially become available.