How does Telegram's end-to-end encryption work?

Encryption is essential for the secure exchange of messages and content via app. But how does Telegram’s end-to-end encryption work?

Telegram is a popular messaging app that offers a slightly different approach to encryption compared to other services like WhatsApp or Signal. Many users switch to Telegram because they are convinced by the simplicity and functions of the app. But many people don't know how Telegram's encryption works and what the differences are compared to other platforms.

Telegram uses two main types of encryption: cloud-based encryption and end-to-end encryption. The app protects normal chats, groups and channels using cloud-based encryption. This means that Telegram stores messages on its own servers. This means that third parties can theoretically gain access to the content. However, the company emphasizes that no user data will be passed on to third parties.

Telegram end-to-end encryption only in secret chats

This type of encryption allows users to sync messages across devices. For maximum security, Telegram also offers so-called “secret chats”. These chats are end-to-end encrypted. This means that only the sender and the recipient can read the messages – Telegram itself has no access to them. However, these secret chats are not enabled by default.

To start a secret chat, you have to select it manually. To do this, select the “Secret Chat” option when creating a new chat. These chats are only available on the device on which the conversation was started. There is no synchronization via the cloud.

Telegram justifies the lack of E2E encryption with the range of functions

According to founder Pawel Durow, the reason why Telegram does not use end-to-end encryption for all chats by default is due to the app's functionality. This includes numerous options that would not be possible with continuous end-to-end encryption. These include synchronizing messages across multiple devices and managing large channels with thousands of members.

Durow emphasizes that the secret chats feature is intended for those who need maximum security, while most users value ease of use and functionality. However, this mix of different types of encryption can also lead to confusion. Some users might assume that all chats on Telegram are equally secure, but this is not the case.

Privacy on Telegram

While the app only encrypts normal chats in the cloud, secret chats offer significantly higher security. However, studies have shown that many users do not clearly understand the differences, which can lead to potential security vulnerabilities. So, in summary, Telegram offers a flexible platform with a mix of ease of use and security.

However, if you particularly value privacy, you should actively use the “secret chats”. For users who want end-to-end end-to-end encryption by default, other apps like Signal or WhatsApp might be a better choice. These enable both secure message exchange and synchronization across multiple devices.

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