In a decisive move to tackle the persistent issue of scams on its platform, Telegram has introduced a feature designed to improve user safety and elevate the credibility of third-party services. This new functionality allows verified third-party services to assign unique verification icons to users and chats, marking a significant evolution in Telegram’s approach to combating misinformation. The messaging giant, known for its emphasis on privacy and security, aims to promote trust among its users while managing the unfortunate prevalence of scam accounts that can undermine a user’s experience.
This initiative marks a notable departure from Telegram’s existing verification system, which is primarily focused on public figures and organizations using the conventional blue checkmark. Instead, accounts verified by authorized third-party services will now display distinct icons next to their names, thereby increasing the visibility of verified entities without misleading users about their status. By enabling third-party services to assign these icons, Telegram is empowering more organizations to participate in enhancing the platform’s security ethos. Users can easily access details about the verification by clicking on the profiles of these verified accounts, revealing the specific service responsible for their verification.
To further cement this initiative’s credibility, Telegram has established strict guidelines around who can become a third-party verifier. Only those services that operate an officially verified bot on the Telegram platform are eligible to assign verification badges. This precaution is crucial as it mitigates the risk of further scams that typically arise from unauthorized entities posing as trustworthy organizations. By distancing itself from the chaos and misinformation often associated with unregulated services, Telegram is setting a standard for how online messaging platforms can better defend their communities from scams.
The timing of this update is especially poignant, coming just months after French authorities detained Telegram’s CEO, Pavel Durov, based on allegations of facilitating illegal activities through the platform. In response, Telegram has revised its privacy policies, eliminated certain “misused” features, and adopted a more proactive stance on moderation. Durov has also publicly asserted that Telegram has achieved profitability, with revenues surpassing $1 billion. Such milestones underscore Telegram’s commitment to growing its platform responsibly while maintaining user trust.
Alongside the new verification tools, Telegram is also enhancing user experience through a suite of additional features. These include refined search filters aimed at streamlining the process of locating specific chats, QR code scanning capabilities via the in-app camera on both iOS and Android, and an innovative way to convert digital gifts into NFTs. Such updates not only aim to increase user engagement but also show how Telegram is evolving beyond a messaging app into a multifunctional platform.
Telegram’s latest efforts underscore its commitment to user safety, transparency, and innovation in a competitive digital landscape. As scams become increasingly sophisticated, these measures represent a proactive strategy to safeguard users and enhance the overall integrity of interactions within its ecosystem.