Top 10 Cons & Disadvantages of Telegram

Telegram is one of the most popular messaging platforms globally, boasting millions of users due to its simplicity, speed, and diverse features. However, like any technology, Telegram is not perfect and has its share of drawbacks that users should consider before diving in.

Despite its strengths, Telegram’s limitations often become deal-breakers for some users. These disadvantages range from privacy concerns to limited accessibility features that may leave users questioning if it’s the right messaging platform for them. Below, we’ll explore the top 10 cons of Telegram, providing real-life examples and potential solutions to help you make an informed decision.

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What is Telegram?

Telegram is a cloud-based instant messaging platform that allows users to communicate securely and efficiently. Launched in 2013, the app is known for its speed, reliability, and extensive features. Telegram has become a favorite for individuals and groups looking for a versatile messaging solution.

• Open-source design: Some aspects of Telegram are open-source, allowing developers to explore its structure.
• Multi-platform support: It works seamlessly on iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, and Linux.
• Large group chats: Telegram supports groups with up to 200,000 members.
• Cloud-based storage: Messages, files, and media are accessible from any device.
• Customizable features: Options like themes and bots provide personalized user experiences.

Real-life example: A small business uses Telegram to coordinate with its international teams, leveraging the app’s group chats and file-sharing capabilities. While it offers excellent functionality, the disadvantages discussed below sometimes hinder its full potential.

Disadvantage #1: Privacy Concerns

Telegram markets itself as a secure platform, but its encryption methods have raised eyebrows among privacy advocates.

• Telegram does not enable end-to-end encryption by default for standard chats.
• Messages are stored on Telegram’s servers, posing potential risks if servers are compromised.
• Metadata collection by Telegram can be concerning for privacy-conscious users.

Real-life example: A journalist using Telegram to communicate with sources discovered that their conversations were not end-to-end encrypted, exposing sensitive information.

Solution: To mitigate this, users can switch to “Secret Chats,” which are end-to-end encrypted. Telegram should also consider enabling end-to-end encryption by default to improve trust.

Disadvantage #2: Limited File Compression Control

Telegram offers a convenient file-sharing feature but lacks robust compression control, leading to quality loss or unnecessarily large files.

• Image and video compression may degrade quality.
• No granular control over compression levels for media.
• Large files can result in excessive data usage.

Real-life example: A photographer shared high-resolution images through Telegram, only to find the recipients received compressed, low-quality versions.

Solution: Implementing advanced compression settings and allowing users to choose their preferred file quality would solve this issue.

Disadvantage #3: No Default Two-Factor Authentication

Although Telegram provides an option for two-factor authentication (2FA), it is not enabled by default, leaving accounts more vulnerable.

• Accounts are only secured with a one-time SMS code by default.
• SMS-based authentication can be intercepted by attackers.
• Many users are unaware of the 2FA feature.

Real-life example: A user experienced account hacking after attackers intercepted their SMS code, leading to a security breach.

Solution: Telegram should implement 2FA as a mandatory setup process during account registration to enhance security.

Disadvantage #4: Limited Discoverability of Channels

Telegram channels are a unique feature, but finding them is not straightforward.

• Telegram lacks an in-app directory for channel discovery.
• Users often rely on external websites to find relevant channels.
• It reduces accessibility for newcomers unfamiliar with the ecosystem.

Real-life example: A user wanted to join a community-focused Telegram channel but struggled to find it due to the lack of a search-friendly interface.

Solution: Telegram could create a curated channel directory with proper categorization and search tools to improve usability.

Disadvantage #5: No Built-In Video Call Recording

While Telegram allows video calls, it doesn’t support recording these calls directly within the app.

• Recording requires third-party tools, which can be cumbersome.
• This limitation makes it less competitive compared to other messaging apps.
• Video call participants cannot review discussions afterward.

Real-life example: A remote team missed vital details from a video meeting because they couldn’t record the session within Telegram.

Solution: Adding a built-in recording feature for video calls would greatly enhance Telegram’s functionality.

Disadvantage #6: Lack of Threaded Conversations in Group

Large group chats can quickly become chaotic due to the absence of threaded conversations.

• Replies often get lost in busy groups.
• Important discussions are hard to follow.
• It discourages meaningful engagement in larger communities.

Real-life example: In a tech support group on Telegram, users struggled to find answers to their queries amid unrelated replies.

Solution: Integrating threaded conversations or message grouping could streamline communication in large groups.

Disadvantage #7: No Message Scheduling for Regular Chats

Message scheduling in Telegram is restricted to Saved Messages or Channels, limiting its utility.

• You cannot schedule messages for standard 1:1 chats.
• It reduces productivity for users who want to plan messages ahead.
• Competing apps offer broader scheduling features.

Real-life example: A manager failed to schedule reminders for team members because Telegram did not support this feature in direct chats.

Solution: Expanding scheduling functionality to all chats would make Telegram more user-friendly for professionals.

Disadvantage #8: App Permissions Raise Concerns

Telegram requires extensive permissions during installation, raising skepticism among privacy-focused users.

• Access to the device’s contacts, storage, and camera is mandatory.
• Lack of transparency about how permissions are used.
• Some users feel this compromises their data privacy.

Real-life example: A privacy-conscious user avoided installing Telegram due to concerns over its extensive permissions.

Solution: Telegram could provide detailed explanations and customizable permission settings to reassure users.

Disadvantage #9: Frequent Updates Can Be Confusing

Telegram frequently rolls out updates, which can overwhelm or confuse users unfamiliar with the changes.

• Updates often introduce new features without adequate guidance.
• Some updates can disrupt user habits.
• Novice users struggle to adapt quickly.

Real-life example: A new user found Telegram updates challenging to navigate, leading to frustration and reduced app usage.

Solution: Telegram could provide detailed update logs and tutorials to ease the learning curve.

Disadvantage #10: Ads in Public Channels

Telegram has started integrating ads in public channels, affecting the user experience.

• Ads may clutter the interface in popular channels.
• They could disrupt community-focused content.
• Some users feel it undermines Telegram’s ad-free image.

Real-life example: A user noticed intrusive ads while browsing a public channel, making the experience less enjoyable.

Solution: Introducing an ad-free subscription plan could appease users seeking a cleaner experience.

Videos about Telegram

Want to learn more about how to use Telegram effectively? There are countless video guides available online. These tutorials cover everything from setting up the app to leveraging its advanced features. Check out a detailed video guide to start mastering Telegram today!

Conclusion

Telegram remains a powerful messaging tool, but its disadvantages highlight areas that need improvement. From privacy concerns to usability challenges, understanding these cons can help users make better decisions about integrating Telegram into their lives. By addressing these shortcomings, Telegram can enhance its user experience and maintain its competitive edge.