Telegram vs WhatsApp: Data Privacy Comparison

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In an era where digital communication dominates, messaging apps like Telegram and WhatsApp have become essential tools. However, with growing concerns about data privacy, many users are questioning which platform offers better protection. Both apps boast strong user bases and a commitment to security, but their approaches to data privacy differ significantly.

End-to-End Encryption

WhatsApp uses end-to-end encryption (E2EE) by default for telegram data all messages, voice calls, video calls, and even media shared between users. This means that only the sender and recipient can read the messages. WhatsApp uses the Signal Protocol, which is widely considered one of the most secure encryption protocols available today. Importantly, even WhatsApp itself cannot access the content of user conversations.

Telegram, on the other hand, offers E2EE only for its “Secret Chats.” Regular chats on Telegram are encrypted using client-server/server-client encryption, meaning Telegram has access to the content stored on its cloud servers. While this allows users to sync messages across multiple devices, it poses greater risks if those servers are ever compromised. To ensure E2EE on Telegram, users must actively choose to use Secret Chats, which are not enabled by default.

Data Collection and Storage

WhatsApp collects more metadata than Telegram. This includes user contacts, device information, IP addresses, usage data, and in some cases, location information. WhatsApp is owned by Meta (formerly Facebook), a company that has faced scrutiny over its data handling practices. This association raises concerns for users wary of how their personal information might be used for advertising or other purposes.

Telegram collects less metadata. It requires only a phone number to sign up, and it does not tie user accounts to real identities or device data. However, because Telegram stores non-Secret Chat messages on its servers, this data could potentially be accessed under specific legal circumstances. Telegram claims to have never shared user data with any government, but its policy allows for disclosure when legally compelled.

Ownership and Business Model

WhatsApp’s connection to Meta raises additional privacy concerns, especially considering Meta's business model, which is based on targeted advertising. Although WhatsApp itself does not show ads or mine chat content for advertising purposes, it shares some data with Meta, which has sparked user backlash in the past.

Telegram was founded by Pavel Durov, who has positioned the platform as an independent and privacy-focused alternative. Telegram does not sell user data or show ads in private chats. Its funding model has been based on donations and, more recently, on premium features rather than data monetization.

Conclusion

When comparing Telegram and WhatsApp in terms of data privacy, WhatsApp offers stronger encryption by default, ensuring all messages are end-to-end encrypted. However, it collects more user data and shares some with its parent company, Meta. Telegram offers a more privacy-conscious approach to data collection but lacks default E2EE across all chats. Ultimately, the better platform depends on user priorities—whether they value default encryption or prefer minimal data collection with optional E2EE.