192 SHARES Share Tweet

Telegram, a secure messaging app, received some bad publicity this past week as it was reported that hackers from Iran breached customer accounts. The story was that the breach gave them access to millions of user’s names and phone numbers. The company issued a statement Tuesday saying that users should “keep calm” and continue to use the app. They state the breach was severely blown out of proportion.

The initial story claimed this was one of the largest breaches within the system of encrypted communications. It also claimed that when users log onto the app from any newly purchased phone, Telegram sends an authorization code through their SMS system. It is this sent code that can be intercepted and shared with hackers.

Telegram spokesman stated that this is not the case. He stated that the company encourages users to use a 2-step system for verifying their phones. With that, it is impossible for a hacker to intercept anything. It is the best way to protect information.

The company did admit though that this interception of data was possible at one time. They had “checkers” who started testing for Iranian numbers that were registered on the Telegram app. They confirmed 15-million different accounts. Because of this, the data was collected but the accounts were never accessed by an outside party. The company confirmed this to put their customer base at ease and to save themselves from having to find a rework.

Since that time however, Telegram has made necessary changes to ensure security. They have introduced limitations into their API starting this year that hopefully will eliminate any breeches of security.

If any customers still want to check numbers, they can still do so on a one-by-one basis. They stated that this is possible with any phone-based app and common for users to implement as a security measure.