Telegram Offers SMS Relay Program That Could Expose Your Phone Number

Question 1

The safety concerns with Telegram’s program are multi-faceted?

Answer 1

1. Privacy risks
2. Security risks
3. Financial risks
4. Uncertain benefits

Question 2

1. Privacy Risks

Answer 2

Sharing one’s phone number, even for a seemingly benign purpose like relaying SMS codes, opens users up to potential privacy violations. Users may receive unwanted messages or calls from random Telegram users who obtain their phone numbers through this program.

Question 3

2. Security Risks

Answer 3

Allowing Telegram to use one’s phone to send SMS login codes introduces security risks. If a user’s device is compromised or if Telegram’s systems are breached, sensitive information such as login codes and phone numbers could be exposed.

Question 4

3. Financial Risks

Answer 4

Participants in the program may incur additional charges from their mobile carriers for sending international text messages, as well as general network charges. Telegram does not reimburse participants for these expenses, potentially leaving users with unexpected costs.

Question 5

4. Uncertain Benefits

Answer 5

Telegram acknowledges that participants may not see a net-positive financial benefit from the program, as carrier fees could exceed the value of the premium subscription reward. This raises questions about the fairness and efficacy of the program.

Question 6

Ethical concerns arise from several aspects of the program?

Answer 6

1. Informed Consent
2. Fair Compensation
3. Privacy and Security
4. Equity and Access

Question 7

1. Informed Consent

Answer 7

While the program is opt-in, there are concerns about whether participants fully understand the potential risks and costs involved. Without clear and comprehensive information, users may not be able to make informed decisions about participating.

Question 8

2. Fair Compensation

Answer 8

Telegram’s offer of a premium subscription as a reward may not adequately compensate participants for the risks and costs they incur. There are questions about whether the potential benefits outweigh the potential harms for participants.

Question 9

3. Privacy and Security

Answer 9

There are ethical implications to Telegram’s handling of user privacy and security. Despite claiming to take great care to protect privacy, the program still exposes participants’ phone numbers to OTP recipients, potentially undermining users’ trust in the platform.

Question 10

4. Equity and Access

Answer 10

The program’s reliance on participants’ mobile devices may disproportionately affect users with limited data plans or those in regions with high network charges. This raises concerns about equity and access to premium services.