How Secure is Telegram? What’s Up Next and What’s Really Going On?

The Telegram Hype: Is It Deserved?

Telegram has made a name for itself as the “secure” messaging app of choice for privacy enthusiasts, activists, and anyone who’s a bit wary of the mainstream. But here’s the real question: Is Telegram as secure as everyone thinks, or is it just riding a wave of hype?

With encryption promises, secret chats, and a user base of over 700 million, Telegram’s managed to build an image of a privacy-first platform. But dig a little deeper, and you’ll find a more complicated story beneath the surface.

Telegram’s Encryption: The Good, The Bad, and The Flawed

Telegram touts its encryption like a badge of honor, but here’s the catch — its standard chats aren’t encrypted end-to-end by default. Wait, what?

Yeah, the regular chats that most users engage in are encrypted, but they’re stored on Telegram’s servers, which means the company technically has access to them. For true end-to-end encryption, you need to manually enable “Secret Chats.” And let’s be real — most users aren’t doing that.

While other apps like Signal encrypt everything end-to-end by default, Telegram only offers this higher level of security in a feature that most users overlook. If privacy is the goal, why not make end-to-end encryption the default for all messages?

What’s Going on With Telegram’s Server Locations?

Here’s another twist: Telegram’s servers are decentralized, with data split across multiple jurisdictions. This sounds like a privacy win, but it also means the app is subject to different laws depending on where its servers are located. Some experts have pointed out that this setup could be a vulnerability if Telegram ever faces pressure from governments in those regions.

To its credit, Telegram has resisted sharing user data with authorities. But as the platform grows, especially in places where governments may not take kindly to encrypted messaging, it’s worth asking how long they can keep that up.

The Data You Didn’t Know Was Being Collected

Telegram doesn’t just handle your messages; it also collects metadata — information like your IP address, device details, and contact list. While this might seem harmless compared to the contents of your conversations, metadata can paint a surprisingly accurate picture of your behavior and network.

And then there’s the issue of how Telegram uses your phone number. Unlike apps like Signal, which go out of their way to minimize how your phone number is used, Telegram requires it for account creation. It’s a small detail, but one that could impact your anonymity, especially in situations where protecting your identity is critical.

What’s Next for Telegram?

Despite its flaws, Telegram continues to push forward with new features aimed at keeping users hooked. They’ve recently added features like video calls, enhanced group chats, and even an in-app currency (Telegram Open Network or TON).

But while they’re busy rolling out shiny new features, the question of whether Telegram will ever fully embrace default end-to-end encryption remains unanswered. With competitors like Signal and WhatsApp (despite its own issues) leading the way in secure messaging, Telegram’s next move could be crucial in maintaining its status as a privacy app.

So, How Secure Is Telegram Really?

In a nutshell, Telegram is secure — if you know how to use it. But for the average user? The platform isn’t as locked down as you might think. Sure, it’s better than SMS, but it’s not the iron-clad fortress of privacy some make it out to be.

If you’re looking for true privacy, you need to dive into Secret Chats and be cautious about what you share. And even then, don’t forget about the metadata trail you’re leaving behind.

What You Can Do to Stay Secure on Telegram

If Telegram is your go-to messaging app, here’s how you can up your privacy game:

Use Secret Chats
If privacy matters to you, make sure you’re using Telegram’s Secret Chats. They offer end-to-end encryption, and messages aren’t stored on Telegram’s servers.

Avoid Sharing Sensitive Info
Telegram may not be the place to share sensitive personal data, especially in regular chats. Stick to more secure apps if you need maximum privacy.

Review Permissions
Take a look at the app permissions and limit what data you’re sharing. Consider using a VPN to mask your IP address when using the app.

Stay Updated
Keep an eye on Telegram’s updates and security announcements. As the platform grows, there could be changes that impact your privacy.

Final Thoughts: It’s Not All Bad, But It’s Not Perfect

Telegram has a lot going for it — it’s fast, user-friendly, and packed with features that cater to both individuals and large groups. But don’t let the sleek interface fool you. If privacy is your top priority, Telegram might not be the holy grail of secure messaging that it claims to be.

At the end of the day, you need to know what you’re getting into. Telegram can be secure, but only if you take the right steps. And as the app continues to evolve, it’ll be interesting to see how they address the growing demand for airtight security.