Security aspects and tips for using Telegram

This tutorial focuses on the security of Telegram, one of the most popular messaging services. You will learn how Telegram handles your data, what security measures are in place, and how you can optimize the app to protect your privacy. Let's go through the key points so you can better understand the pros and cons of Telegram in terms of security.

Key Insights

Telegram provides end-to-end encryption for voice and video calls as well as for secret chats. However, public and private chats are not encrypted. Your messages are encrypted on the servers and could be accessed by Telegram in case of emergency. A phone number is necessary for usage, meaning complete anonymity is not guaranteed. It is important to use secret chats for sensitive information.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Trust the End-to-End Encryption

Firstly, it's important that you understand Telegram provides end-to-end encryption for voice and video calls. This means your calls are secure and cannot be accessed from outside unless you create a security vulnerability yourself. This security is maintained as long as you do not jailbreak the app or otherwise compromise it.

Step 2: Use Secret Chats for Sensitive Information

If you want to communicate with someone whose information should not be accessible to third parties, it is essential to use secret chats. End-to-end encryption is also used in these chats. However, both participants must agree to this secret chat. Make sure to actively use this feature to protect your information.

Step 3: Pay Attention to the Storage of Your Messages

All your messages are stored on Telegram's servers. While they are encrypted, the operator could view them in case of emergency, especially in the case of spam messages or legal requests. This means that if you want to share something very sensitive, not using the app for communication could also be advisable.

Step 4: Registration Requires a Phone Number

To use Telegram, you need a phone number. This serves as your verification and makes it impossible to create an account without it. This information comes with certain risks, as your phone number is also linked to your account. It is important to be aware that this could limit your anonymity while using the app.

Step 5: Understand the Advantages of This Fact for Advertisers

By using Telegram and entering your phone number, Telegram can offer targeted advertising opportunities for businesses. This could theoretically lead to the disclosure of your number to advertisers, which you may not want. Be aware of this and act accordingly.

Step 6: Consider the Limitations of Anonymity

Although you can hide a profile picture or your name on Telegram, the phone number remains linked. While you can hide your number in group chats and chats, there is still a vulnerability: The number is stored on the servers. This means that complete anonymity on Telegram is not guaranteed.

Step 7: Choose Secure Communication Modes Wisely

In conclusion, it is important to consider what information you share and through which communication mode on Telegram. If you have sensitive information or thoughts that should not be accessible to everyone, you should exclusively choose secret chats or voice and video calls for communication.

Summary

Telegram offers a variety of security features that allow you to communicate safely, but not all chats are equally secure. Make sure to use secret chats to exchange serious and confidential information.