You can now send self-destructing photos, videos on Telegram
What's the story
Messaging app Telegram is the latest to join several other messengers that have added the self-destructing message feature originated by Snapchat. With its latest update, Telegram started offering disappearing photos and videos in private chats. Users need to set a self-destruct timer for the media they share in one-on-one conversations; they will also be notified if the recipient tries to take a screenshot.
Latest Update
Telegram brings more security and fun
Apart from the self-destructing media, Telegram has introduced the bio feature, using which users can add a few details about themselves to their profiles. Users can now edit their photos even quicker thanks to the improved editing tools. Media from large public channels (100,000+ members) can be downloaded faster as Telegram will use new encrypted CDNs (distributed content networks).
Information
Other apps with disappearing media
To offer more security and privacy to users, several other messengers have mimicked Snapchat self-destructing messages feature. Some of them include Facebook Messenger (secret conversations), Viber (secret chats), Hash, Confide, Bleep (whisper feature), Wickr, and Cover Me.
Concerns
The new messenger choice for terrorists
Telegram is well known for the level of security it provides. However, it has also come under fire in many countries because of its high-level encryption. The latest self-destructing feature would likely not be appreciated by the authorities who already claim that the messenger is useful for spreading terror-related content. The "encrypted and anonymous" Telegram is reportedly the preferred messenger for terrorists.
Information
Indonesia threatens to ban Telegram
Indonesian authorities partially banned (web version) Telegram recently as they said the messenger is a key communication tool for terrorists, especially the ISIS. After they had threatened to ban the encrypted messaging service altogether, Telegram said it is working on removing terror-related content in Indonesia.
ISIS
ISIS is using Telegram to spread propaganda
The Islamic State is known for using social media for spreading its propaganda. However, in Sep'15, ISIS switched to Telegram when it rolled out the 'channel feature' letting users broadcast their messages to unlimited users. While Telegram blocked official IS channels, the outfit was able to create several channels, mirroring the original. However, Telegram said it blocks thousands of ISIS-related channels every month.
Data
Telegram safe from hackers
Resisting to install "backdoors" to allow authorities access the encrypted messages, Telegram said the move would "undermine privacy". It earlier claimed that the app is also safe from hackers. It even announced $300,000 reward for those who could hack its 'secret chats', but nobody won.