Telegram and Signal welcome millions of new users in the face of the ongoing exodus of WhatsApp after the dominant platform has broken users’ trust with the new Privacy Policy. But it is important to get to know your rival Telegram better.
There is a catch on this instant communications platform, unlike Signal, Telegram does not have end-to-end encryption enabled by default. It is a feature present in the messaging service, but it can escape the less attentive users.
There is something you need to know about Telegram
First, by end-to-end encryption it is understood that only the recipient and the sender have access to the contents of the message. Even if the message is stored on a server, as is the case with Signal or even Apple’s iMessage, only those who have the decryption key will be able to read, or have access to the contents of the message.
This means that in the event of an invasion of the server where the messages are stored, a computer attack or hack, pirates had no way of reading messages. The decryption key or code is not on that same server.
In view of the above, the need, or serious recommendation, for end-to-end encryption to be implemented in instant messaging services is immediately understandable. It is therefore a security imperative in 2021.
Knowing where to look, there is also end-to-end encryption at Telegram
Above we see the testimony of Mike Isaac, one of the technology reporters from The New York Times. The journalist begins by repudiating the amalgamation of Telegram and Signal, the main alternatives to WhatsApp that have been promoted as similar platforms.
And, although both provide several instant communication services over the Internet, there are significant differences between both. THE Telegram is seen as a social network + messenger, with no end-to-end encryption active by default.
THE Signal, as far as it is concerned, it is a classic messenger, with end-to-end encryption enabled by default. It is, therefore, the safest and most respectful option for user privacy when looking for an alternative to WhatsApp.
Secret conversations on Telegram
Telegram provides end-to-end encryption in the secret rooms. Like Facebook Messenger in secret conversations that any user can use. It is an option available in the application for those looking for maximum security.
This safety standard is always available from Signal. Telegram (and Facebook Messenger) is optional. It is something that the user has to look for in order to use and take advantage of it. Something that may even go unnoticed by some users.
Note that, as pointed out by a user on Twitter, in response to the publication by the Times, end-to-end encryption, active by default also has its disadvantages. In particular, the inability to synchronize conversations and history when using more than one device.
As far as it is concerned, WhatsApp has end-to-end encryption enabled in chats and private conversations, between family, friends and close contacts. However, with regard to conversations with Companies, the security standard is more diffuse.
It can also be said that WhatsApp will implement changes in the encryption of conversations between companies and private users on its platform. The new rules will come into effect on May 15, 2021 and have generated a huge challenge.
Signal, Telegram and WhatsApp, three platforms with encryption
THE Signal has this security protocol active by default in all conversations. It is considered the most respectful platform for user privacy.
THE Whatsapp has this security protocol active in conversations between family, friends and some companies operating on its platform. From May, however, this will change with the entry into force of the new privacy policy, affecting mainly chats with Companies that use WhatsApp services and the Facebook platform.
THE Telegram you do not have this security protocol active by default. However, any user can take advantage of it by activating secret channels, or secret chats, applicable only to a communication channel for two people.
Finally, the Facebook Messenger it also has this security protocol in Secret Conversations, not by default.
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