Telegram has introduced a contentious new feature offering users a complimentary premium membership in exchange for permitting the instant messaging app to utilize their phone numbers as a conduit for delivering one-time SMS passwords to other users attempting to log into the platform.
This move has sparked concerns regarding potential privacy vulnerabilities and the exposure of personal data.
Initially spotted by the TGInfoEn Telegram channel (via reverse engineer AssembleDebug), the feature is being gradually rolled out in specific countries for Telegram for Android users.
Under the arrangement, if users consent to Telegram using their numbers as an OTP relay, they receive a transferable code for Telegram Premium.
The terms of service for this peer-to-peer login initiative stipulate that the company will send a maximum of 150 OTP messages per month. Participants, who may also incur charges for local and international SMS usage, must reach a certain quota to qualify for the complimentary subscription.
However, from a financial standpoint, users may end up paying more through their phone bills than the value of Telegram’s premium membership.
Privacy concerns loom large, as allowing strangers to utilize one’s number as a relay could potentially expose it to spam and fraud.
Although Telegram permits users to conceal their phone numbers from strangers, engaging in this relay system could inadvertently divulge their Telegram account.
The terms specify that participants in the program absolve Telegram of any liability for damages and grant the company complete indemnity from all claims related to peer-to-peer login.
“You acknowledge and agree that Telegram shall bear no liability for any costs, expenses, damages, or any other adverse or otherwise unforeseen consequences that you may incur as a direct or indirect consequence of your present or past participation in the P2PL Program,” the terms state.
Telegram advises users against interacting with individuals who receive an OTP code from their number, but there is no mechanism in place to enforce this directive.
While the company introduced a subscription service two years ago, offering features such as transcription, exclusive stickers, reactions, and other customizations, it has recently introduced features like Stories for paid users. Nevertheless, users considering participation in the peer-to-peer login system must weigh the decision to share their phone numbers with strangers to save a few dollars against the potential risks involved.
