WhatsApp lets you reserve a username to keep your number private

WhatsApp will introduce a username system that lets you reserve unique handles so people can message you without knowing your phone number. You can claim a username now via Settings > Account > Username (existing Instagram or Facebook handles can be used to deter impersonation). High-profile names are reserved to prevent abuse, and you can’t browse by username—you must know the exact handle to contact someone. The rollout will happen later this year, and an optional username key will let you control who can message you.