Telegram Might Start Using CAPTCHA

Changes in the TDLib source code indicate that the messenger may start using a CAPTCHA — an "I'm not a robot" verification for certain actions. According to the code, the verification will be applied only in official Telegram apps.

Generally, CAPTCHA is used to protect against spam and other unwanted requests. Previously, the messenger could only block such suspicious actions.

It is still unknown for which actions and how often the verification may be required. There is a chance Telegram may use an invisible CAPTCHA, which will collect signals in the background and provide Telegram with a bot score when it needs it.

@tginfo editors think CAPTCHA can reduce the number of errors and floodwaits experienced by some users. Alas, if this leads to more abuse, the messenger may tighten the system instead, and in that case, CAPTCHA will become an additional source of annoyance — and if Telegram will use an invisible CAPTCHA, users would not have alternative paths of remedy in cases when their activity is deemed suspicious.

The source code mentions reCAPTCHA — a user verification solution by Google. This is probably the technology that the messenger will be using. This raises some questions about privacy, since reCAPCHA uses extensive data collection to detect bots. Keep in mind that the feature is still in development, and the Telegram team may modify or cancel it.

#tdlib #antispam

Telegram May Introduce ‘Frozen’ Accounts for Rule Violators

The @tginfo editors have discovered new strings in Unigram's source code, indicating that the messenger may soon introduce the ability to put user accounts into a “frozen” state in an upcoming update.

Based on these strings, one can speculate:
• Accounts could be frozen for violating Telegram's Terms and Conditions.
• While frozen, users “can access their account but cannot send messages or perform any actions”. A frozen account would operate in “read-only mode”. Presumably, this restriction would even extend to private messaging with contacts.
• Telegram may offer users the option to appeal this decision through @SpamBot. If the freeze is not lifted, the account will be deleted.
• It is possible that other users may see a special indicator on profiles of frozen accounts.
• It remains unclear if “freezing” will be used to all permanently banned accounts before they are deleted.

This feature is still under development, and the above information consists of assumptions by @tginfo editors. Details could be inaccurate or subject to future changes.

#antispam

Some Details About Telegram Moderation from the eSafety Investigation

Telegram is tight-lipped regarding its structure and internal processes. However, as the number of users grows, so does the pressure on the company: regulators around the world are demanding greater transparency, especially when it comes to user safety.

In March 2024, the Australian internet safety regulator eSafety began an investigation into Telegram's moderation practices. The @tginfo editors have studied the published document, in which the messenger discloses to the regulator some details about the operation of systems that block illegal content.

If you're interested in learning how Telegram balances privacy and security, how many reports are processed by moderators versus algorithms, and how automatic content scanning works, we recommend reading our analysis.

https://tginfo.me/esafety-analysis-en/

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