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Writer's picturemeowdini
May 271 min read

Signal vs Telegram: Decoding the Latest Messaging App Spat

The world of encrypted messaging apps is heating up, with Telegram founder Pavel Durov launching a fresh attack on Signal. But is his criticism justified? Let's break down the situation.


An image of a boxing match between a blue boxing glove labeled "Signal" and a purple boxing glove labeled "Telegram." They are locked in a heated fight, with sparks flying. This image represents the ongoing rivalry between the two messaging apps.

Durov's Attack on Signal:

  • In a recent post, Durov criticized Signal's security mechanisms, calling them a "circus trick."

  • This isn't the first time Durov has taken aim at Signal. He's been making negative predictions about its security for years, none of which have come true.



Potential Biases:

  • Signal and Telegram are fierce competitors. Durov's comments might be more about undermining a rival than genuine security concerns.

  • Durov's recent attack conveniently coincided with controversy surrounding Signal Foundation Chair Katherine Maher's comments.


Telegram's Encryption Shortcomings:

  • It's important to remember Telegram doesn't offer end-to-end encryption by default, and group chats lack it entirely.

  • This means the majority of Telegram users are not benefiting from the strongest privacy protections.


The Anti-Signal Movement:

  • A surprising trend of negativity towards Signal has emerged, fueled by comments from figures like Tucker Carlson.

  • These criticisms often lack evidence and seem to be politically motivated.


Alternatives and the Trade-Off:

  • Decentralized messaging apps like Session offer a trustless model with completely open-source code.

  • However, decentralization can make implementing complex encryption features more challenging.

  • Ultimately, there's a trade-off between security, privacy features, and user experience.


Durov's attack on Signal seems more like a marketing ploy than a legitimate security concern. While Signal isn't perfect, it offers robust encryption for those who prioritize privacy. Users should be aware of Telegram's limitations and explore alternatives based on their needs. Remember, absolute security and a seamless user experience rarely go hand-in-hand.



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