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1. Introduction

Telegram, a popular instant messaging app, has recently introduced a new feature that has sparked controversy due to its potential privacy risks and exposure of personal information.

2. The Controversial Feature

The feature, first spotted by the TGInfoEn Telegram channel, allows users to avail a free premium membership. In exchange, users must allow Telegram to use their phone number as a relay for sending one-time SMS passwords (OTP) to other users attempting to log into the platform.

3. Privacy Concerns

This feature raises significant privacy concerns. Participating users may end up paying more through their phone bill than the value of Telegram’s premium membership. Furthermore, it allows strangers to look up your number and potentially use it for spam and fraud. While Telegram allows users to hide their phone numbers from strangers, using your number as a relay could allow them to look up your Telegram account.

4. Security Risks

The program’s terms of service imply that those who opt-in may also be able to glean personal information about the code recipients. This lack of a clear vetting or verification process could potentially allow malicious actors to opt into the program. While Telegram promises to remove any relay program members who communicate with SMS login code recipients or re-share their phone numbers, such consequences would only occur after damage has already been done, undermining the platform’s security assurances.

5. Conclusion

In conclusion, while the allure of a free premium membership may be tempting, users must consider if the potential privacy risks and security concerns are worth it. The benefits of free Premium do not outweigh the risks posed by this SMS verification program. It’s safer to use an authenticator app instead to increase your digital security. This feature serves as a stark reminder that users must always prioritize their privacy and security when using digital platforms.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is the new feature in Telegram?

Telegram’s new feature allows users to obtain a free premium membership. In return, users must permit Telegram to use their phone numbers as relays for sending one-time SMS passwords (OTP) to other users during login attempts.

How does the feature work?

Users who opt-in to the program allow their phone numbers to be used as intermediaries for delivering SMS login codes to other users. Essentially, your phone number becomes part of the authentication process for other users.

What are the privacy concerns associated with this feature?

The feature raises significant privacy concerns. Users might end up paying more through their phone bills than the value of Telegram’s premium membership.

Additionally, allowing strangers to use your number as a relay could lead to spam and fraud. Even though Telegram lets users hide their phone numbers from strangers, this feature could potentially expose your Telegram account.

Are there security risks involved?

Yes, there are security risks. The lack of a clear vetting or verification process means that malicious actors could potentially opt into the program.

Telegram promises to remove relay program members who communicate with SMS login code recipients or share phone numbers, but this action would only occur after potential damage has already been done.

Is the free premium membership worth the risks?

Users should carefully weigh the allure of a free premium membership against the privacy risks and security concerns.

The benefits of free Premium may not outweigh the potential risks posed by this SMS verification program.

What’s an alternative to using this feature?

For increased digital security, consider using an authenticator app instead of relying on SMS-based verification.

What’s the bottom line?

While the idea of free Premium membership is tempting, users must prioritize their privacy and security. It’s essential to make informed decisions based on the potential risks involved.

References: Alitech Blog, Google News