Although Telegram is a newly discovered startup, it promotes itself as an open, secure and private messaging service. may put at risk at least one of these concepts. As reported by Android Police, the app’s official page now includes the Terms of Service for the Peer-to-Peer (P2PL) login program.

It aims to allow users with Android devices in some countries to voluntarily submit their phone numbers for automatic SMS sending containing login codes. In return, the company promises to activate Telegram Premium for free, a subscription that costs 5.49 euros per month in Spain.

An idea with many nuances

When a person registers on Telegram, the service allows login after entering the code received via SMS. These verification codesEmails, known as OTPs, are sent from operators, but Telegram is looking for alternatives “to ensure that all users in all domains can receive OTPs.”

This is where the P2PL program comes into play. If users agree to participate, the Telegram application installed on the device will be able to send up to 150 OTP messages per month. At this point, it is worth noting that this dynamic may create a charge for sending SMS on the customer’s mobile phone bill.

“You understand and agree that you may be charged for SMS messages sent from your number as part of the P2PL Program. mobile operator or service provider,” the company said, adding that they will not provide any refund in such a case in the Terms of Service.

Now we also need to talk about a privacy issue. The recipient of the OTP message will be able to see the phone number of the sending user, which opens the door to receiving messages from strangers or other unwanted actions. At this point, Telegram says it “will not be responsible for any inconvenience, harassment or damage.”

Revealing a phone number to strangers can also impact fraud attempts, spam, among other activities. service users After receiving the OTP code. Telegram asks P2PL participants not to send messages to recipients, even if the recipient responds.

It is currently unclear whether Telegram has started rolling out this new login program. The company says on its website that it “may not be available to users in certain regions,” citing factors such as economics, local regulatory restrictions and communications infrastructure.

Pictures | Eyestetix Studio

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