Telegram's Free Premium Offer Raises Privacy Concerns

The messaging app's new program could expose users' phone numbers to strangers, experts warn.

Telegram's new Peer-to-Peer Login program offers a free premium membership in exchange for allowing the app to use your phone number as a relay for sending OTPs to other users.
The program, which is rolling out in select countries for Android users, could expose your phone number to strangers, raising significant privacy and security concerns.
Participants in the program could end up paying more through their phone bill than the value of the premium membership due to potential SMS charges.
Telegram will not be liable for any inconvenience, harassment, or harm resulting from unwanted actions by users who became aware of your phone number through the program.
Experts and publications advise against accepting the offer, emphasizing that the risks to privacy and security far outweigh the benefits of a free premium subscription.