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+---
+author: jorgesumle
+date: 2025-05-28
+gitea_url: "http://git.nowherejezfoltodf4jiyl6r56jnzintap5vyjlia7fkirfsnfizflqd.onion/nihilist/blog-contributions/issues/277"
+xmr: 4AVrC3LT4Ad7DCK5L8MDfWfMeiTqDYJnWDAKGE1jJNbn7pBmFGay81C5sKcci9pwkXRRBexM5JKyVUTEPWvvZTAJ3WeAAex
+---
+
+# Why can't you use Telegram privately
+
+![](1.png)
+
+Telegram dangerously gives some people a false sense of privacy that is
+in no way warranted. This is mainly due to misleading advertising:
+Telegram claims to be open source and end-to-end encrypted. Even if
+these deceptive statements were truth, the popular messaging app has
+other serious issues that compromise your privacy.
+
+## Closed-source, centralized and not encrypted: a privacy nightmare
+
+Only the Telegram client code is open source, but that code is useless
+without the back-end closed-source programs and infrastructure. Those
+core components are **controlled by a single company** that can be forced to
+comply with authorities. In August 2024, Telegram CEO was arrested by
+French authorities who demanded information on users of the app. He gave
+in, showing the world that your private conversation, phone number, IP
+address, pictures and so on are not safe.
+
+A big problem is that messages on Telegram aren't encrypted by default,
+so users are an easy prey. They could start a "secret chat", but that
+feature is not available on desktop or web clients and would surely
+raise suspicion. The problem with optional privacy is that it makes
+users who opt out stand out in the crowd.
+
+## You will be tracked
+
+Better forget it if you want to be anonymous on Telegram. Before you
+can even start chatting you must provide a phone number, which can be
+easily linked to your real identity. The only workaround would be to use
+a burner phone. Even then, you would have to be technologically savvy to
+install a privacy-respecting open source mobile operating system and
+avoid being tracked by cellphone networks. Using a pseudonym and
+avoiding sharing personal information would be pointless at that point.
+
+In short, it is practically impossible to use Telegram with privacy or
+anonymity, so it can only be used for public use. If someone invites you
+to use Telegram to discuss sensitive topics, refuse. Instead tell them
+to do it in person or use an open source, decentralized and anonymous
+alternative such as SimpleX.
+
+## Why SimpleX
+
+Unlike Telegram, SimpleX does not require users to provide a phone
+number. It is designed with strong privacy and security features,
+ensuring that your messages remain confidential and are not stored on
+any central server. It offers end-to-end encryption and minimal metadata
+collection, making it a robust choice for those who prioritize privacy
+and security in their communications. If you want to achieve secure,
+decentralized, and privacy-focused communication, SimpleX is a great
+option.