Nadia Buari Sounds Alarm as WhatsApp Username Grab Sparks Impersonation Fears
Ghanaian actress Nadia Buari has voiced concern after discovering that multiple versions of her name have already been claimed under WhatsApp’s newly introduced username feature.
The feature, which is being rolled out gradually, allows users to create unique usernames so they can connect without sharing phone numbers — a move aimed at boosting privacy and simplifying interactions on the platform.
Buari revealed that when she attempted to secure her preferred username, she realised that every option she tried — from her full name to initials and other variations — had already been taken.
She described the experience as worrying, noting that it opens the door for impersonation. According to her, scammers may be rushing to reserve celebrity‑related usernames to deceive unsuspecting fans.
Buari urged the public to remain alert and verify the identity of anyone claiming to be her on WhatsApp or other platforms, stressing that impersonation could easily be used to mislead or defraud people.