Is Telegram safe?

Telegram is one of the world’s most popular messaging apps, having gained a vast number of users thanks to features like secret chats, self-destructing messages, and large groups. Despite its popularity, many questions regarding user security and privacy remain unanswered. Let’s examine the risks associated with using Telegram and what precautions you can take to minimise them.

What is Telegram?

Telegram is a popular messenger app valued for its speed, security, and privacy protection. Created in 2013 by Pavel Durov, Telegram has gained recognition as a free, cloud-based internet communicator, allowing users to exchange text messages, make voice and video calls, and send images and files in various formats.

Unlike other applications such as Facebook Messenger, Telegram was designed with privacy as a priority. To this end, it introduced features like end-to-end encryption and a secret chat mode.

The history of Telegram

Telegram was created by Pavel Durov, often compared to the “Russian Mark Zuckerberg” due to the success of his projects. As early as 2006, while working on VKontakte—one of Russia’s most popular social networking sites—Durov faced pressure from Vladimir Putin and the Kremlin, who demanded access to user data. Durov firmly refused to cooperate. In 2014, fearing further government actions and criticising changes in VKontakte’s ownership structure, he sold his shares and left Russia.

Launched in 2013, Telegram was a target from the outset for Russian authorities, who pressured the company to provide user data for political purposes. Even though Pavel Durov left Russia and moved to Dubai, and the company opened an office in London, pressure from the Kremlin did not cease. In 2018, Telegram was officially blocked in Russia due to its refusal to comply with government demands. However, two years later, the ban was lifted when Telegram expressed willingness to cooperate with Russian services on matters related to combating terrorism and extremism.

The blockade of Telegram proved ineffective—the app remained the most important tool for the Russian opposition despite actions by Roskomnadzor, the institution responsible for media and technology control. The platform not only allowed access to opposition information but also became a place for spreading propaganda. In response to these actions, Telegram in 2022 blocked Russian state media from using the app.

Main features of Telegram

To assess whether Telegram is a secure platform, it’s worth closely examining the app’s main features, especially those impacting user privacy and security.

End-to-end encryption

One of the most frequently discussed elements of Telegram is end-to-end encryption, available in the Secret Chats feature. This type of encryption guarantees that only the sender and recipient of a message can read it; even Telegram’s servers do not have access to the message content.

However, it’s important to note that this level of encryption is not automatically activated for regular chats. Consequently, not all conversations on Telegram are secured end-to-end. This is a crucial aspect when evaluating the app’s privacy, as it affects the confidentiality of user communication.

Secret chats

The Secret Chats feature was designed to ensure maximum privacy. Messages sent in this mode are end-to-end encrypted, and their copies are not stored on Telegram’s servers.

Additionally, users have the option to set self-destructing messages, which are automatically deleted after a specified time. This solution is particularly useful for those who require a higher level of security in their conversations.

Self-destructing messages

Telegram offers the self-destructing messages feature in standard chats as well. With this function, messages are automatically deleted after a set period, enhancing privacy protection.

Two-factor authentication (2FA)

To increase account security, Telegram allows users to enable two-factor authentication (2FA). With this feature, users must provide a password in addition to their phone number when logging in. This is an important safeguard against unauthorised access to your account.

Cloud storage

Telegram stores standard conversations and media in the cloud, allowing users to access them from various devices. This functionality enhances the convenience of using the app but raises questions about the security of data stored on Telegram’s servers. It’s important to remember that chats stored in the cloud do not use end-to-end encryption, which may raise concerns about data protection.

Controversies surrounding Telegram

Despite its advanced privacy protection features, Telegram has not avoided controversies that have raised questions about how user data is managed and the app’s approach to privacy issues.

Telegram has been criticised for its links to illegal activities and its approach to privacy in the context of government demands. One of the accusations against the app is its use as a tool to support illegal activities such as drug trafficking and other crimes. Features like secret chats and the ability to set self-destructing messages make the messenger attractive to those wanting to avoid law enforcement scrutiny. This raises questions about whether Telegram takes sufficient action to monitor and counteract such situations.

Another issue is the use of the proprietary MTProto encryption method in the Telegram app, which differs from those used in Signal and WhatsApp. Consequently, it is developed more slowly and potentially could be easier to break; moreover, creating proprietary encryption at a high level is very difficult, which may pose a threat from hackers. MTProto is not fully open-source, which hinders independent audits and the detection of potential security vulnerabilities.

Concerns about security and potential threats related to security gaps have been subjects of criticism. Although Telegram has not experienced major data breaches—unlike some other platforms—the lack of default end-to-end encryption for standard chats has raised doubts. Privacy advocates argue that this limitation may expose users to risks related to their confidential data.

How to use Telegram safely?

If you plan to use Telegram, it’s advisable to take a few simple steps to better secure your account and protect your privacy.

Activate two-factor authentication

To strengthen account protection, enable the two-step verification feature. This means that, in addition to your phone number, you’ll need to provide a password when logging in, significantly hindering unauthorised access to your account.

Use secret chats for confidential conversations

If you want to ensure maximum confidentiality in your conversations, use the Secret Chats feature. This communication mode offers end-to-end encryption, and messages are not stored on Telegram’s servers. Additionally, you can enable the option for self-destructing messages to enhance the privacy of your conversations.

Regularly review privacy settings

Make sure to regularly check and adjust your privacy settings. You can control who sees your phone number, last activity, and who can invite you to groups. Personalising these settings helps increase security and limits access for unwanted individuals.

Add a recovery e-mail address

To avoid problems with regaining access to your account in case you forget your password or lose access, set up a recovery email address. This additional safeguard allows you to quickly and securely restore access to Telegram.

Monitor logged-in devices

Regularly check the list of devices logged into your account. Telegram allows you to view active sessions, which helps detect any unauthorised access. In case of suspicious activity, immediately end the session on unknown devices.

Use TuxlerVPN for greater protection

To enhance your online security, use TuxlerVPN when using Telegram. This tool encrypts your internet connection, making it more difficult for internet service providers and other third parties to monitor your online activity. A VPN provides an additional layer of protection for your data.

Is Telegram really safe?

Telegram is a popular messenger, but its level of security depends on how you use it. Features like secret chats and encryption offer solid protection, but the lack of default end-to-end encryption and potential risks associated with the MTProto protocol may raise doubts. To use Telegram safely, it’s worth adjusting your privacy settings and using additional tools like TuxlerVPN. Choosing the right messenger should be based on individual needs and your level of trust in the platform.

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