Telegram has unveiled a new, divisive feature offering users complimentary premium access if they permit the app to use their phone number for relaying single-use SMS passwords to others trying to access the service. This development has sparked concerns over privacy and the risk of personal data exposure.
Initially identified by the TGInfoEn Telegram channel and reported by reverse engineer AssembleDebug, this feature is currently available in certain regions for Android users on Telegram. Agreeing to let your number be used for this purpose earns you a code that can be used to activate Telegram Premium.
The service agreement for this login method states that a maximum of 150 SMS messages can be sent each month. Those who join may also face charges for sending SMS messages, both domestically and internationally, and must meet a specific threshold to qualify for the free premium subscription. This could potentially lead to higher phone bills than the cost of a Telegram Premium subscription itself.
Privacy concerns are significant, as this feature could enable unknown parties to find and misuse your number for spam or fraudulent activities. Although Telegram provides options to hide your number from unknown users, participating in this feature could inadvertently make your account visible.
The terms also stipulate that participants cannot hold Telegram responsible for any losses incurred, effectively absolving the company of all legal claims related to the login service.
Participants are advised against interacting with recipients of the OTP codes sent from their numbers, though enforcement of this guideline is unclear.
Telegram introduced its subscription service two years ago, offering benefits like message transcription, unique stickers, reactions, and more, including Stories for paying members. However, those considering the peer-to-peer login option must weigh the benefits against the risks of sharing their number with strangers.
