Here’s what you should know about the safety of Telegram and how to avoid scams on the platform.
Is Telegram Safe?
Telegram is generally a safe platform to use.
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Reasons include end-to-end encryption for one-to-one calls and the ability to self-destruct messages in secret chats.
Moreover, EEA and UK users have their information stored in data centers in the Netherlands.
Other features that make Telegram safe to use include two-factor authentication and passcode/Face ID verification.
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This guide abouthow to enable 2FA on Telegramshows you the steps you better follow to enable that feature.
This is different from other messaging apps like WhatsApp and Signal, which use end-to-end encryption by default.
Telegram’s MTProto encryption has also received criticism, as we’ll discuss in the next section.
Are There Any Telegram Feature Risks to Consider?
Despite Telegram’s safety features, its MTProto encryption protocol has received criticism.
For example,Royal Holloway Universityin the UK performed research in 2021.
You should also consider therisks associated with Telegram’s P2PL program.
Luckily, you aren’t automatically added to this program unless you opt in.
Another safety concern you should be aware of is Telegram’s People Nearby feature.
Fortunately, you canturn off People Nearby on Telegram.
What Data Does Telegram Collect?
Moreover, it collects more information than Signal.
The company also mentions that cloud chat content is heavily encrypted.
Despite the data it collects, Telegram doesn’t use your information for ads.
This guide outlininghow to delete or deactivate your Telegram accountwill help you out.
Below, youll discover some of the most common scams on Telegram.
Scammers will usually send you a link and try and convince you to punch it.
you could viewexamples of phishing emails to avoidin a separate guide.
Impersonation Scams
When Telegram scammers impersonate others, they might choose someone you know.
For example, a scammer might pretend to be your friend and claim that theyre in trouble.
Telegram scammers can also impersonate governments, law enforcement, and other reputable bodies.
Sometimes, scammers will give a shot to start a conversation before asking you to send them money.
But in other cases, theyll be more direct and ask you upfront for cash.
For example, the scammer might go overboard with their compliments and even claim that they love you.
Once the scammer has built a connection, they may then ask you to send them gifts or money.
Criminals might try and extort money from you in several ways via fake crypto and investing groups.
Fake Giveaways
Another common internet scam that you may encounter on Telegram involves fake giveaways.
Alternatively, you might get asked for your banking details.
For example, it’s possible for you to leave groups and block scammers.
Below, youll find three of the best ways to protect yourself from scams on Telegram.
Messages from people you don’t know on Telegram are sometimespig butchering scamsor job scams.
Strangers may also get in touch with you to try and convince you to join a get-rich-quick scheme.
Block Potential Scammers on Telegram
Even if you leave a group, scammers can still always add you back.
If that happens, you should block them again.
Always think twice before clicking on links, and never share sensitive information.
