The messaging app Telegram has released a new update that allows users to create accounts using anonymous blockchain-based numbers, instead of mobile phone numbers..
Telegram already hides the private phone numbers of users not added to the app. Nevertheless, now users will be able to hide numbers from everyone, which will likely please people who value privacy-focused features.
The messaging platform has become a very popular app among cryptocurrency enthusiasts. The move is part of the 9.2 update released on December 6, which also allows users to automatically remove message timers in new chats..
Ultimate Privacy: No-SIM Signup, Auto-Delete All Chats, Temporary QR Codes, Topics 2.0 and More https://t.co/NtpPjNnf9q
—Telegram Messenger (@telegram) December 7, 2022
Maximum privacy: registrations without the need for a SIM card, auto-delete all chats, temporary QR codes, Topics 2.0 and more https://t.co/NtpPjNnf9q
To use the feature, users will have to purchase “blockchain-powered anonymous numbers” from Fragmenta decentralized auction platform founded by the creator of Telegram, Pavel Durov.
Fragment sells anonymous usernames and numbers that are only compatible with Telegram. Purchases are made on the platform through the Telegram-affiliated token, The Open Network (TON).
Nevertheless, unfortunately for users in the United States, Fragment does not offer its services to citizens located there.
By purchasing a number, people can use these private numbers to receive text messages with verification codes after logging into Telegram.
People can buy a random number in Fragment for 9 TON, or $16, or they can buy and sell numbers through auctions.. It seems that some specific numbers are attracting a lot of demand, as “+888 8 888” currently has the highest bid of 33,075 TON, or USD 60,527, at the time of writing.
Following the FTX debacle last month, Durov revealed via his Telegram channel on November 30 that the company is building a suite of decentralized tools. in response to what was yet another instance of misconduct by a crypto-centralized entity.
In addition to Fragment, Durov indicated that Telegram is looking to roll out non-custodial wallets and decentralized exchanges, among other applications..
“The solution is clear; blockchain-based projects should go back to their roots: decentralization. Cryptocurrency users should switch to trustless transactions and self-hosted wallets that do not rely on any third party,” she wrote.
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