Telegram vs Signal: Which Messaging App is More Secure and Private?

Over the past few years, the social media industry has been rocked by revelations about how tech giants like Facebook misuse and exploit our data without our consent. As a result, there has been a surge in demand for privacy-focused apps, especially in the messaging and browsing niches. Two messaging apps that have gained significant traction in this regard are Telegram and Signal.

Recent updates to WhatsApp's policy, which now requires users to share data with Facebook, has sparked outrage on social media. Prominent figures like Edward Snowden and Elon Musk have urged users to switch to either Signal or Telegram. In this article, we will compare these two alternatives and determine which one offers the most secure messaging experience.

Telegram vs Signal: A Head-to-Head Comparison

Let's examine the security and privacy features of both Telegram and Signal to determine which app is more secure and private. Personally, I have been using Telegram for some time now, as it is the preferred platform for blockchain companies and enthusiasts. However, Signal is relatively new to me.

User Interface

Both Telegram and Signal have clean interfaces with traditional hamburger menus. Unfortunately, neither app features a bottom navigation bar, which can make it difficult to reach the top corners. If you use Telegram X instead of Telegram, you will notice certain UI changes, such as a separate tab for Chats and Calls next to the menu icon.

Signal, on the other hand, only has one tab and does not display a list of all your contacts by default. Instead, you search for them and open the chat window to send a text or make a call. Signal's UI is more similar to WhatsApp.

Both messenger apps offer dark mode, but Telegram also provides additional color options.

Privacy and Security

Privacy and security are the main selling points of both Telegram and Signal. The Telegram team, consisting of two Russian brothers, is so confident in their MTProto encryption technology that they launched a contest with a $200,000 prize followed by a $300,000 prize to break into Telegram. No one succeeded. All messages and calls in Telegram are end-to-end encrypted. However, their decision not to use the existing Signal protocol drew criticism, prompting them to explain the difference between the two protocols. While all Telegram apps are open-source, the backend is not, which has raised some concerns.

Signal, on the other hand, uses the Open Whisper System, which is highly recommended by security experts such as Bruce Schneier and Edward Snowden. Like Telegram, all messages and calls in Signal are end-to-end encrypted using the Whisper Protocol, which is open-source.

In Telegram, you can delete any message you have sent or received within 48 hours. For media files like pictures, audio, or video, you can set a timer at the time of sending to determine how long the media will be accessible.

In Signal, you can send disappearing messages. You can choose a time interval, and the message will be automatically deleted after that time has elapsed. This feature applies to both media files and text messages. Signal also offers a verification method that generates a unique set of numbers, ensuring that the profiles you are communicating with are genuine.

While both Telegram and Signal take privacy and security seriously, there are differences in the technology and methods they employ. The general consensus is that Signal is more secure, as it implements security and privacy protocols from the start, whereas Telegram separates them and offers an additional option. Additionally, Signal's verification method sets it apart from other messaging apps, providing an extra layer of security.

Features

Signal can be used as your default text/SMS messaging app, replacing the one that came with your mobile device. This feature enhances your overall security. However, if you prioritize features over security, Telegram is the better choice. Telegram supports massive group chats with up to 200,000 members, which is unparalleled in any other messaging app. You can also attach files up to 1.5GB in size. At present, it is unclear how many members can be added to a group in Signal and the maximum file size that can be attached.

Telegram also supports bots, which can perform various tasks such as welcoming new members, enforcing group rules, and auto-deleting posts that contain specific words. These features make Telegram popular among blockchain and crypto enthusiasts, as well as private companies who want to keep their followers updated with news. Unlike Signal, Telegram allows you to share your current location if desired.

Signal, on the other hand, does not support bots, has a capped file size, lacks an API, and does not allow assigning roles to group members. Signal was built to prioritize privacy and does an excellent job in that regard.

Pricing and Platform Availability

Both Telegram and Signal are completely free with no ads or endorsements. They are available on all major computer and mobile operating systems.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Telegram is a solid messaging app with a wide range of features that can keep most users satisfied. Although chats are not encrypted by default, you can enable encryption if needed. Telegram is secure and offers an extensive feature set that is hard to ignore.

However, if you require a messaging app that prioritizes privacy and security above all else, Signal is the better choice. Signal's verification methods and implementation of the Signal protocol make it highly secure, even without advanced features. If you belong to a secret organization or consider yourself a high-profile businessman, Signal will provide instant peace of mind.

Ultimately, the choice between Telegram and Signal depends on your specific needs and preferences. You may find value in using both apps, like I do.