Telegram has recently introduced a controversial new feature that offers users a free premium membership in exchange for allowing the messaging app to use their phone number as a relay for sending one-time SMS passwords to other users trying to log in, sparking concerns about potential privacy risks and the exposure of personal information.
The feature, first identified by the TGInfoEn Telegram channel (via reverse engineer AssembleDebug), is currently being rolled out in specific countries for Telegram for Android users. By agreeing to let Telegram utilize your number as an OTP relay, you’ll receive a transferable code for Telegram Premium.
The terms of service for this peer-to-peer login program state that the company will send a maximum of 150 OTP messages per month. Users participating in this program may also incur charges for local and international SMS usage in addition to having to meet a certain quota to qualify for the complimentary subscription. In some cases, the cost of using your phone number as a relay may exceed the value of Telegram’s premium membership.
Moreover, there are significant privacy concerns as sharing your number could potentially expose it to spam and fraud. While Telegram allows users to hide their phone numbers from strangers, consenting to use your number as a relay could give them access to your Telegram account.
The terms also specify that Telegram will not be held liable for any damages and users participating in the program absolve the company of any 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 consequences resulting from your present or past participation in the P2PL Program,” the terms state.
Telegram advises users not to interact with individuals who receive an OTP code from their number, although enforcing this may be challenging.
While Telegram introduced a subscription service with various features two years ago, including transcription, custom stickers, reactions, and more, users opting into the peer-to-peer login system should consider whether disclosing their phone number to strangers for a free subscription is a trade-off worth making.
