Telegram has introduced a new feature aimed at curbing scams by allowing official third-party services to assign verification icons to users and chats, the company announced on Wednesday. This move is part of Telegram’s broader effort to enhance security and transparency on its platform.
A Distinct Approach to Verification
Unlike Telegram’s existing verification system for public figures and organizations, this new feature involves a separate process. Instead of the familiar blue checkmark, accounts and chats verified by third-party services will display a unique icon to the left of their name. Users can click on the profile of a third-party-verified account or chat to view which service verified it and the reason behind the verification.
Telegram emphasizes that only services with an official bot verified by the platform itself can apply to become third-party verifiers. This restriction is designed to “prevent scams and reduce misinformation,” according to Telegram. The approach mirrors a feature on X (formerly Twitter), which allows verified organizations to assign affiliation badges to associated accounts.
Addressing Security Concerns
The rollout of this verification feature comes on the heels of significant scrutiny faced by Telegram. Earlier this year, French authorities arrested Telegram CEO Pavel Durov, alleging that the platform facilitated illegal activities. In response, Telegram has taken steps to bolster its security and moderation efforts. These measures include updating its privacy policy, disabling features that were reportedly being misused, and adopting a more proactive stance on moderation.
Durov also highlighted Telegram’s financial achievements, revealing that the platform reached profitability last year with total revenue exceeding $1 billion. This milestone underscores the company’s growth and its ability to invest in features like enhanced verification and moderation tools.
Additional Updates and Features
Beyond the new verification system, Telegram has introduced several other updates aimed at improving user experience. These include:
- Advanced Search Filters
Users can now more easily locate specific chats or conversations with the help of enhanced search filters. This feature is expected to streamline navigation, particularly for those managing numerous chats. - QR Code Scanning
Telegram has added the capability to scan QR codes directly using its in-app camera on both iOS and Android devices. This simplifies processes like connecting with new contacts or accessing group links. - Digital Gifts as NFTs
A novel addition allows users to transform digital gifts into non-fungible tokens (NFTs). This feature taps into the growing popularity of blockchain-based assets and offers a unique way for users to personalize and share digital content.
Telegram’s recent updates reflect a strategic shift in addressing user concerns around security and trustworthiness. The introduction of third-party verification aligns with the platform’s goal to reduce the spread of misinformation and protect users from scams. By partnering with official services, Telegram aims to create a safer environment for its diverse user base.
Moreover, the addition of features like search filters and QR code scanning demonstrates Telegram’s commitment to improving functionality and convenience. These enhancements are likely to appeal to both individual users and businesses, further solidifying Telegram’s position as a leading messaging platform.
As Telegram continues to expand its offerings and address security challenges, the success of its new verification system will depend on the reliability and transparency of the third-party verifiers it approves. Ensuring that these verifiers operate with integrity will be crucial in building user confidence in the system.
With profitability achieved and revenue surpassing $1 billion, Telegram appears well-positioned to invest in further innovations. Its recent updates signal a proactive approach to staying competitive in the crowded messaging app market while addressing key concerns around moderation and security.
In the evolving digital landscape, Telegram’s efforts to enhance user trust and experience could set a benchmark for other platforms grappling with similar challenges. Whether these measures will be enough to fully address its security reputation remains to be seen, but the company’s latest steps indicate a clear commitment to improvement and growth.