---
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.