Why WhatsApp usernames could upset Somalia's anti-terror fight

Core point

Somalia's government is worried about WhatsApp's new feature allowing chats via usernames instead of phone numbers. Communications and Technology Minister Ahmed Osman Dirie stated that this change could hinder efforts to trace criminals in the country. WhatsApp has responded that the feature is not yet live and users will still need a phone number to access the app. The Somali government has approached Meta to discuss their concerns regarding the potential for increased financial fraud.