Have you ever wanted to change your Snapchat username but couldn't do it? Snapchat is taking measures to protect its users by allowing them to change their usernames. While changing your Snapchat username is a welcome development, there are questions about its efficacy, especially as your Snapcode remains the same.

Nonetheless, there are plenty of security reasons you might consider changing your Snapchat username.

1. Security Breach

Man Operating Computer in Dark Room

A security breach on a network exposes users' personal information on the network. This is a valid reason to change your Snapchat username, especially after a suspected attack.

The January 2014 hack on Snapchat exposed details of 4.6 million Snapchat accounts. The vulnerability allowed hackers to acquire the usernames and phone numbers of millions of users. In a situation like this, it is best if you change your username and password immediately to protect yourself.

2. Malware Attack

If you find that you have been exposed to a malware attack, it is best to contact Snapchat admin and change your username.

A cybercriminal can compromise your Snapchat account with malware once you click on an infected link. You can mitigate the damages by changing your username once you suspect that you have been exposed to malware.

3. Shared Devices

If you shared your Snapchat account details with anyone, yoiu need to change your username occasionally for security reasons. Your login details may fall into the wrong hands.

You may trust the person you shared your Snapchat login information with, but they could accidentally expose it to someone else. Changing your username protects your account, in case an intruder tries to log into your account with it.

4. Privacy

Young Lady Taking Selfie

Although Snapchat is a public space, you still need to have some level of privacy—yes, even from those familiar to you such as family, friends, and colleagues. If you don't want certain people to keep tabs on you, you can change your username, so they can't find your account.

Similarly, if you have ever been a victim of trolling and cyberbullying on Snapchat, changing your username could help you. The trolls and bullies can't get to you as long as they don't have your new username (unless they have your Snapcode).

5. Stalking

Another security reason why you should change your username for security is to avoid stalking, especially regarding relationships. For instance, you may have just come out of an abusive relationship, and you are trying to have a fresh start. You need to get a new username to usher you into a new chapter of your life, away from your ex's eyes.

Changing your username, in this case, makes it difficult for your ex to find you. This is very important as online stalking is common following a breakup. Your ex could be stalking you on Snapchat, knowing your every move if you maintain your username. Yes, you can block people on Snapchat, but they could potentially add you under another account.

6. Offensive Monikers

Girl Talking Selfie

Some monikers may be trendy in some climes and be offensive in others. If you are going to a new location, you might want to change your username if it has a negative connotation.

With the Snapchat username change feature, you can change your username to suit your current location for security reasons without losing your following on the platform. And people change over time too: what you found funny as a teenager might not seem so hilarious when you're in your 20s.

Changing Your Snapchat Username for Convenience

The ability to change your Snapchat username makes the platform more flexible to use. A username might be great at the time you opened your account but out of place a few years down the line. You can easily change it to a more accepting username without worrying about losing your following.

Although you can only change your Snapchat username once a year, it could help protect you in dire situations. A new username gives you a new online identity, and you can keep unwanted persons from finding you on the platform.