The government has been urged by the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) to establish a formal regulatory framework for over-the-top (OTT) communication platforms like Signal, Telegram, and WhatsApp. COAI claimed in a statement that these platforms are the “weakest link” in the nation’s communication security, providing message and voice services akin to those of telcos but functioning outside of the regulatory framework.
COAI emphasised the significance of controlling all communication channels to improve national security, citing a recent event in Pahalgam where satellite phone signals assisted in the capture of three terrorists.
OTT Apps Like WhatsApp & Signal Bypassing Compliance Norms
Since OTT players currently evade compliance obligations like lawful interception, subscriber verification, anti-spam protocols, and domestic infrastructure investment rules that telcos must follow, the industry body, which represents private telcos Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, and Vodafone Idea, said the regulatory gap presents difficulties for law enforcement.
Unified License System Suggested for OTT Communication Players
The DoT’s security directives under this act require authorised interception capabilities, local infrastructure, and the retention of domestic traffic—all crucial components for safeguarding user privacy for satellite communication services while guaranteeing national security. COAI suggested creating a specific OTT authorisation under the Unified License framework in order to close the gap.
Telecom Act 2023: Regulatory Gap Leaves Telcos at a Disadvantage
A specific OTT authorisation under the Unified License, according to COAI Director General SP Kochhar, will guarantee fairness, improve security, balance innovation with the nation’s security requirements, and establish uniformity across platforms. In order to alleviate the existing regulatory disparity, it was also suggested that OTT regulations be brought into compliance with the Indian Telecommunications Act, 2023.
OTT platforms that operate via the internet are not constrained by the infrastructure and interception constraints that apply to traditional telecom services. The Telecommunications Act 2023’s final text does not specifically place OTT platforms under licensing, despite telecom players’ calls for a “same service, same rules” approach.
OTT providers and tech groups contend that the IT Act 2000 already regulates them and that further regulation will impede privacy rights and innovation.
TRAI vs COAI: Spectrum Pricing Dispute Over Satcom Market
There is also a dispute between TRAI and COAI on the suggested satellite spectrum. Many satcom companies, including Starlink, Amazon’s Project Kuiper, and Airtel’s Eutelsat, are preparing to enter the Indian market.
However, Indian telcos are concerned about their entry into the global satcom market, particularly with regard to regulatory recommendations on satellite spectrum. Telcos criticised TRAI’s spectrum pricing strategy as “unfairly low” and predicated on “flawed assumptions” after the agency had suggested that satellite spectrum be priced at 4% of adjusted gross revenue (AGR).
Additionally, the COAI requested a second review. However, TRAI allegedly denied COAI’s request to reconsider its suggestions for satcom spectrum, claiming that the consultation process was exhaustive and open.
Pavel Durov has always been a figure who stands out in the digital world, known for his strong belief in freedom and privacy. He’s someone who doesn’t back down easily, often finding himself in the spotlight for challenging authority. Durov’s life has been a journey full of determination, where his ideals often clash with those in power.
Durov recently announced in June 2025 that he plans to leave his $17 billion fortune to his future legacy of over 100 children.
He previously made headlines in 2024, not for his tech accomplishments, but for his arrest. This event has sparked fresh debates about the balance between security and freedom online. For Durov, this is just another chapter in his ongoing fight to protect individual rights from government control. Let’s go through his story, which is one of resilience, as he continues to travel through the difficult path of pushing back against the status quo.
Pavel Durov Biography
Name
Pavel Durov
Born
10 October 1984
Birthplace
Saint Petersburg, Russia
Citizenship
Russia, France, UAE, St Kitts and Nevis
Education
Master of Science, Saint Petersburg State University
Position
Co-founder and CEO of Telegram
Net worth
$17.1 billion (June 2025)
Pavel Durov – Early Life and Education
Durov was born in the city of St.Petersburg in Russia in 1984. He had to live in Italy for most of his childhood since his father worked there. Durov left Russia and became a French citizen in 2021, but lives in Dubai.
He had a solid academic background, which paved the way for his entrepreneurial journey in the tech industry. He did his graduation from the Philology Department of Saint Petersburg State University in Russia. His Philology degree was of great help when he started working on social media platforms.
Pavel Durov’s career is a story of innovation, defiance, and international intrigue. He began his rise as a tech entrepreneur by founding VKontakte (VK) in 2006 just when he was in his 20s. VK was Russia’s most popular social networking site which was inspired by Facebook. His ambition to create a free and open internet platform quickly collided with the Russian government’s demand for censorship and control. Since then, Durov has mostly been in the news for standing up against the government in matters of protecting the freedom and privacy of his social media users.
In 2011, he refused to cooperate with the Federal Security Service by blocking opposition groups on VK. This did not sit well with the Government. The pressure on him escalated once again when, during the Russia-Ukraine war in 2014, Russian authorities demanded personal details of some leaders from the opposite side and he refused to provide them. He wasn’t able to withstand the pressure from Russia, leading to his eventual ouster from VK in 2014. The government’s increasing influence over VK’s operations, coupled with direct threats, pushed Durov to sell his stake and leave.
In 2013, Durov launched Telegram, a messaging app focused on security and privacy. This move was both a response to the challenges he faced with VK and a forward-looking project aiming to provide users with a platform free from government surveillance. Telegram’s rise was meteoric, gaining millions of users worldwide, especially after privacy concerns with other platforms like WhatsApp emerged.
As an advocate of privacy, Durov understood that to maintain Telegram’s independence, he needed to be outside the reach of Russian authorities. This led him on a nomadic journey across multiple countries, including Dubai, which became a base for his operations.
In 2018, to build TON, a blockchain system, Pavel and his brother Nikolai gathered $1.7 billion from investors. However, the SEC banned the system, and it was eventually shut down.
Despite the constant challenges, including the blocking of Telegram in Russia in 2018 and the collapse of his TON blockchain project due to U.S. regulatory action, Durov has remained resolute in his mission.
Durov’s global travels are a testament to his commitment to freedom and privacy. After leaving Russia, he visited several countries, including France, Italy, and the UAE, where he has reportedly spent considerable time. His moves were often strategic, seeking jurisdictions that offered both safety and a favorable environment for his work.
This is what he says about his nomadic life,
“I did not want to make the same mistake of relying on a single jurisdiction…..no matter how good a place looks, you don’t know what crazy new regulation they will introduce.”
Pavel Durov comes from a family with a strong academic background. His father, Valery Durov, is a respected scholar and holds a PhD in philology, which significantly influenced Pavel’s early life and education. His mother also contributed to the intellectual environment in which Pavel and his older brother, Nikolai Durov, were raised. Nikolai has played a crucial role in the development of both VKontakte and Telegram, particularly in the technical architecture and coding of these platforms.
Pavel’s family has always emphasized education and intellectual development, which is evident from the achievements of both Pavel and Nikolai. Despite being a public figure due to his business ventures, Pavel Durov has maintained a relatively private personal life.
Pavel’s marital status is single, and he has six children with his three ex-girlfriends.
Durov recently said that he will leave his US$17.1 billion fortune to more than 100 children, including six of his own and many others born through sperm donations.
In a recent interview in June 2025 with French magazine Le Point, Durov said he recently updated his will to include all his children.
“I see no difference between my children, some were born naturally, others through sperm donation,” he explained. “They are all my children and will have equal rights. I don’t want them to fight over my wealth after I’m gone.”
Pavel Durov – Telegram
In 2013, Pavel and his brother silently launched Telegram. It is a cloud-based messaging app known for its strong emphasis on user privacy, security, and speed. Telegram offers end-to-end encryption for secret chats, ensuring that messages are accessible only to the sender and recipient. The app supports a wide range of features, including group chats for up to 200,000 members, channels for broadcasting to unlimited audiences, and the ability to send various types of media files.
As of 2023, Telegram boasts over 700 million active users globally, and it continues to be a preferred platform for those who prioritize privacy and freedom of speech.
He was listed in the Forbes World’s Billionaires list 2024.
Facts About Pavel Durov
Durov is often known for his mysterious and mercurial behavior.
He is also known for his weird stunts. In 2012, he grabbed attention by showering high-denomination currency notes on the pedestrians from the VK headquarters.
He is always seen dressed in black.
Durov was seen boasting about his sperm donation, calling it a “civic duty”, making him the biological father of more than a hundred children in many countries.
Pavel Durov – Quotes
💡
Privacy is not for sale, and human rights should not be compromised out of fear or greed.
💡
We support free speech and peaceful protest, but terrorist propaganda has no place on our platform. The success of our ongoing anti-ISIS efforts proves that you don’t have to sacrifice privacy for security. You can – and should – enjoy both.
💡
As soon as one agency gets to uncontrollably monitor private communications, soon enough this access falls into the hands of third parties – bribers, hackers, agents of other countries.
FAQs
Who is Pavel Durov?
Pavel Durov is the Co-founder and CEO of Telegram.
Why was Pavel Durov arrested in France?
Pavel Durov was arrested in France on August 28, 2024, facing multiple charges related to illicit activities conducted through the Telegram app.
Is Pavel Durov married?
Pavel’s marital status is single and he has six children with his three ex-girlfriends.
What is Pavel Durov education, or what did Pavel Durov study?
Pavel Durov studied at Saint Petersburg State University, where he majored in English Philology and Translation. He graduated with honors in 2006. Earlier, he also attended the Academic Gymnasium in Saint Petersburg and began learning programming at age 11, which later played a key role in his tech career.
Is Pavel Durov married?
No, Pavel Durov is not married.
Who are Pavel Durov parents and family?
Pavel Durov’s father, Valery Semenovich Durov, is a Doctor of Philological Sciences and has served as the head of the Department of Classical Philology at Saint Petersburg State University since 1992. His mother, Albina Durova, is a professor at the same institution. Pavel has an older brother, Nikolai Durov, who is a renowned mathematician and computer scientist.
What is Pavel Durov citizenship?
Pavel Durov was originally a Russian citizen but later obtained multiple citizenships. In 2013, he became a citizen of Saint Kitts and Nevis through an investment program. In 2021, he was granted citizenship in both the United Arab Emirates and France.
Which is Pavel Durov birthplace?
Pavel Durov was born on October 10, 1984, in Leningrad, which is now known as Saint Petersburg, Russia.
What is Telegram founder net worth?
Telegram founder, Pavel Durov’s net worth as of June 2025 is $17.1 billion.
Telegram has emerged as one of the fastest-growing messaging apps, combining speed, security, and scalability. In 2025, with over 950 million monthly active users, it has become the go-to platform for brands looking to build tight-knit communities, boost engagement, and drive real sales, without fighting algorithms.
Whether you are a startup, a creator, or a fast-scaling brand, Telegram offers a direct line to your audience, raw, real, and ridiculously effective. In this article, we will walk you through everything you need to know: the fundamentals and benefits of Telegram marketing and how to launch your strategy step by step.
Telegram is now one of the world’s leading messaging platforms. Statista ranks it as the third-most downloaded messenger app globally. Businesses and content creators actively use Telegram groups and channels to share updates, deliver exclusive content, run promotions, and engage with their followers in real time. With features like large group capacity, automation tools, and multimedia support, Telegram makes building and nurturing a loyal community easy without fighting algorithmic restrictions.
To further support business growth, Telegram recently introduced Telegram Business. This feature unlocks dedicated tools such as opening hours, business location, quick replies, automated messages, custom start pages, and even chatbot integration, turning Telegram into a full-fledged marketing and customer engagement platform.
What makes Telegram stand out from other messaging apps is that it is a gold mine for marketing. Its growing user base and powerful features offer brands a direct, engaging, and cost-effective way to connect with customers. Here’s why Telegram deserves a spot in your marketing toolkit:
Reach a Massive Audience
Telegram gives you access to a wide and diverse audience with 950 M+active users and growing. Whether targeting a local niche or going global, Telegram instantly helps you reach the right people.
Built-In Privacy & Trust
In a data-driven world, privacy matters more than ever. Telegram’s end-to-end encryption ensures secure communication, boosting user confidence and strengthening brand credibility.
Feature-Rich Messaging
Think beyond text. Telegram supports images, videos, polls, voice notes, and even long-form content. Perfect for brands that want to communicate creatively and keep followers hooked.
Borderless Reach
No matter where your customers are, Telegram removes geographical limits. The platform makes international marketing easy, from global product launches to cross-border promotions.
Zero-Cost Distribution
No ads, no algorithms, no restrictions. Telegram lets you broadcast to your entire audience, for free. It’s one of the most budget-friendly platforms for startups and small businesses.
Real Time Engagement
Unlike email or social media, Telegram delivers messages instantly and allows two-way conversations. Build communities, answer questions, run polls, and get feedback in real time.
Flexible Content Delivery
Text? Images? PDFs? Videos? Telegram supports it all. This flexibility gives marketers the creative freedom to deliver the right message, in the right format, at the right time.
High-Converting CTAs
Drive traffic, boost sign-ups, or promote flash sales; Telegram makes CTAs easy to embed in messages. With high open and click-through rates, it’s ideal for campaign conversions.
How to Develop Winning Marketing Strategies for Telegram?
How to Develop Winning Marketing Strategies for Telegram
While many brands focus on mainstream platforms, Telegram remains an underrated yet powerful marketing tool. With over 900 million users and standout features like bots, channels, and automation, it’s ideal for community-driven growth and engagement. Here’s how to build an effective Telegram marketing strategy:
Create a Powerful Online Presence
Telegram doesn’t offer a dedicated business profile like other platforms. Your brand is represented through:
Channels for broadcasting updates.
Groups for interactive discussions.
Chatbots for automation and support.
Admin accounts that manage everything behind the scenes.
Start by setting up a branded channel or group, and clearly define what users can expect, including exclusive content, offers, customer support, etc.
Find Your Target Audience
Telegram doesn’t offer deep targeting or user data due to its privacy-first model. However, you can:
Start by inviting up to 200 contacts manually.
Promote your existing audience via social media, email, or your website.
Analyse similar Telegram groups or channels to identify where your audience already hangs out.
Since user data is limited, focus on behavioural patterns, what kind of content they engage with, when they’re most active, and what communities they belong to.
Promote Through Public Groups
Group promotion can be highly effective if done right:
Find active public groups relevant to your niche.
Observe group culture and tone before posting.
Reach out to admins for permission or collaborations.
Share value-driven content, not just ads, with a subtle CTA and a link to your Telegram channel.
Stay active, helpful, and consistent.
By contributing genuinely, you can build authority and attract members organically.
Run Telegram Ads
Telegram’s ad platform offers exposure to millions, but comes with limitations:
Ads appear only in public channels with 1,000+ subscribers.
Targeting is limited to language and interest (no age, gender, or location).
That said, Telegram reports 500 billion monthly views across one-to-many channels, offering significant reach for those who can afford it.
One of the easiest ways to grow your Telegram channel is by sharing it across your other social platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. If you already have an engaged audience, drop your Telegram link in bios, posts, or stories. Here’s how you can do so:Promote your Telegram channel in niche forums and online communities relevant to your audience.
Engage with these communities to build trust and naturally introduce your channel.
Use targeted hashtags and mentions on social platforms to increase reach.
Collaborate with influencers or partners to cross-promote your Telegram channel.
Use Telegram for Real-Time Customer Support
Telegram isn’t just for broadcasting updates; it’s a powerful tool for delivering fast, personalized customer support. With its instant messaging capabilities, brands can turn Telegram into a dedicated helpdesk channel to assist users efficiently.
Here’s how to make the most of it:
Respond instantly to customer queries, reducing wait times and improving satisfaction.
Share product guides, FAQs, and updates to help users resolve issues on their own.
Deploy chatbots to handle repetitive questions and escalate complex or urgent issues to human agents.
Cross-Promotion
Telegram groups and channels are often very active, with constant new posts that can sometimes make it hard to stand out. As a business owner, you can turn this to your advantage by using cross-promotion. Collaborating with other relevant groups and channels helps raise awareness of your business and expands your reach. Beyond growth, cross-promotion is an excellent way to build relationships with other businesses and explore joint marketing opportunities.
Here are some effective tips for using cross-promotion for your Telegram business channel:
Find relevant partners: Look for groups and channels that align with your business and target audience to ensure the partnership is effective.
Reach out to admins: Contact the administrators of those groups or channels with a clear pitch outlining what you offer and what you expect in return.
Promote partners’ content: Share and promote their content within your channel to boost exposure for both parties.
Monitor your metrics: Track engagement and growth to measure the success of your cross-promotion efforts and adjust your strategy accordingly.
Conclusion
The surge in businesses adopting Telegram as a core part of their marketing strategy is no coincidence. With its massive and engaged user base, real-time communication features, and growing suite of business tools, Telegram offers brands a direct, distraction-free channel to connect with their audience. Whether you want to launch exclusive products, drive instant engagement, or provide fast customer support, Telegram gives marketers the flexibility and reach they need in a crowded digital world.
Telegram is a cloud-based, cross-platform instant messaging service that offers fast, secure messaging, groups, channels, bots, and secret chats.
Is Telegram an Indian app?
No, Telegram was created by a Germany-based tech organization – Durov Software Industry.
How does Telegram marketing work?
Telegram marketing allows you to reach a large audience, build customer relationships, deliver customer support and monitor the performance of your campaign.
Why should businesses use Telegram for marketing?
Businesses should use Telegram for marketing because it offers access to a massive active user base, built-in privacy with end-to-end encryption, and powerful features like multimedia messaging and real-time engagement. Telegram enables zero-cost, algorithm-free message distribution and high-converting CTAs, making it an effective, scalable platform to build communities, boost engagement, and drive sales.
How do I create an effective marketing strategy on Telegram?
To develop a winning Telegram marketing strategy, start by creating a strong online presence with branded channels and chatbots. Find and engage your target audience by inviting contacts and analyzing groups. Promote via public groups, Telegram ads, and social media. Use real-time support and cross-promotion to boost reach and engagement.
In an arena where the digital economy is blossoming, messaging apps have evolved beyond simple communication tools to become platforms for commerce and content sharing. Among them, Telegram, founded by Pavel Durov, has distinguished itself through a unique combination of speed, security, and privacy.
Telegram is amazingly free and open-source software that offers tons of facilities, such as cloud-based instant messaging, end-to-end encryption, and many others. Telegram offers its users dozens of interesting features. They can create their sticker sets as well as create bots. The users can create or join different channels that provide tons of fascinating content for users to subscribe to.
Telegram does not believe in selling ads for promotion because the personal data shared with advertisers could go against its ethos. That’s why all the funding for Telegram comes directly from Pavel Durov. In case of increasing the revenue number, Telegram would begin users’ donations funding or the freemium model.
In June 2022, Telegram switched to freemium when it introduced paid subscriptions. Additional features, such as double the number of channels they could follow, faster download speed, and premium stickers, were provided to the paying users. Reducing fees and taxes, the in-app revenue of the platform exceeded $1 million in October 2022. The largest share came from iOS users.
Telegram Monthly Active Users
Telegram is a company that operates in fair secrecy and prioritizes its affirmation of freedom from any pressure that could come from the market or any other nationally assigned restrictions. Telegram has gained immense popularity among its customers in many countries across the globe.
The question of how Telegram earns money is particularly intriguing, given its steadfast approach to user privacy and ad-free experience. This insight adds a compelling layer to the app’s business model, setting it apart from competitors and making it a fascinating subject for analysis. This article is all about the intricacies of Telegram’s fiscal strategies, offering insights into how Telegram works and how it earns money without compromising its core principles. Furthermore, we shall also look at the challenges and risks associated with this approach, providing a comprehensive overview that sheds light on the financial underpinnings of one of the most innovative messaging platforms today.
The very popular open-source messaging application, Telegram, provides various facilities to its customers, including file sharing, VoIP, end-to-end encryption on video calls, and many others. Telegram was founded in August 2013 by Nikolai Durov and Pavel Durov. The company is headquartered in London, United Kingdom, and Dubai, UAE, and is operational. Telegram is the highest preferred messaging application in Uzbekistan and Iran. Today, Telegram has over 700 million active users.
In 2023, Telegram reached around 1 billion downloads, ranked by worldwide downloads, and is the 7th most popular non-gaming app in Google Play. Telegram is an open-source application, but its server is closed-source. More than 15 billion messages are sent through Telegram every day.
Here’s a more detailed look at Telegram’s growth:
March 2014: 35 million users
April 2020: 400 million users
April 2022: 500 million users
July 2023: 800 million users
March 2025: 1 billion users
Telegram has experienced remarkable growth, expanding its user base from 35 million in March 2014 to 800 million by July 2023—a surge of over 2185%. Notably, the platform doubled its users from 400 million to 800 million between April 2020 and April 2022 alone.
Telegram provides its server, which is distributed to five data centers located in various regions to minimize the company’s data load. The operational centers are established in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Meanwhile, the legal center was established in London, United Kingdom.
Telegram’s business model stands out in the competitive scene of messaging apps by focusing on user-centric features and robust privacy measures. This approach not only differentiates it from other platforms but also highlights its unique selling propositions (USPs) that make it a powerful tool for users worldwide.
Telegram Business Model | How Telegram Makes Money
Telegram’s business model is entirely based on users’ convenience and features. The company was founded in 2013, but it hasn’t generated much revenue. Back in 2018, Telegram revealed its intentions to create its blockchain network called Telegram Open Network (TON), as well as a cryptocurrency token called Gram. The goal of this project was to transform the way people communicate online by providing a secure and decentralized platform for various applications, including payments. Through an Initial Coin Offering, Telegram raised more than $1.7 billion. But later, in 2019, the SEC stopped this plan and announced it was unlawful (The SEC alleged that Telegram’s Gram tokens were unregistered securities and that the company had violated securities laws).
After this, the co-founder Durov kept the company up with the money he earned from selling the VK stake he owned.
But lately, Telegram has experienced immense growth because of this, the company has monetized the service. In 2020, Telegram’s CEO, Durov announced on his public Telegram channel that they would be monetizing Telegram’s services.
Telegram would not charge any cost to the users, nor would it show any ads in private or group chats. That’s why Telegram is looking forward to other methods to gain enough revenue.
Telegram Boosts Business Model with Premium AI Bot Automation
Telegram’s latest update strengthens its business model by expanding automation features for Premium Telegram Business accounts. Businesses can now integrate third-party bots—including AI-powered ones—to handle messaging, profile updates, transactions, and story posting. These bots can be granted granular permissions, such as managing messages or editing posts, enhancing workflow automation for business users. This focus on advanced automation and premium business tools highlights Telegram’s strategy to monetize its vast user base through paid subscriptions and value-added services tailored for enterprises and professional users.
User-centric Focus – The X Factor
Telegram has been pretty vocal about its emphasis on user convenience and a feature-rich experience. Unlike many other messaging apps, Telegram was not designed with profit generation as its primary goal. Instead, the platform focuses on providing a seamless and enhanced messaging experience. This is evident from its introduction of innovative features such as chat folders, message scheduling, and the ability to edit sent messages, which significantly enhance user convenience. The platform’s dedication to maintaining an ad-free environment in private chats underscores its commitment to user experience over revenue generation. BTW, there’s a Telegram X as well for people who love flexibility. Phew!
Privacy Is Precious, Indeed
Telegram’s approach to privacy is revolutionary and forms a core part of its business model. The platform offers end-to-end encryption for private conversations, ensuring that only the communicating users can access the messages. Telegram’s stringent data protection policies are highlighted by its record of disclosing zero bytes of user data to third parties, including governments. This commitment is further supported by features like two-factor authentication, self-destructing messages, and customizable privacy settings that allow users to control who sees their profile information and messaging status.
Feature Set, Spoil Them With Options
Telegram’s array of unique features significantly contributes to its standing as a preferred messaging app. The platform supports a multitude of user-friendly features, such as the ability to send silent messages, which do not disturb the receiver, and the option to delete messages for all participants long after they have been sent. Additionally, Telegram offers advanced security features like passcode and biometric locks for individual chats, enhancing personal security. The app’s ability to handle large groups and broadcast channels effectively, coupled with minimalistic, privacy-conscious sponsored messages, provides a balanced approach to user engagement and platform monetization.
Telegram, thus, not only ensures a high level of user satisfaction but also aligns with the growing global demand for digital privacy and secure communication. This strategic focus on user benefits over direct profitability sets Telegram apart in the digital communication space, making its business approach a powerful example of innovation and user-first orientation in technology.
What Is Unique About the Business Model of Telegram
Telegram runs on a very smooth business model, and the most unique thing about it is that Telegram wasn’t made to make a profit. The messaging application Telegram was founded to make messaging handy for users with many fascinating features. It has a whole bunch of features that make it unique from the other applications. These features are:
Telegram offers the option of editing the text after sending it. You can also delete them from both sides at your convenience.
You can access your messages anytime from any device through the availability of a cross-platform.
Options for replying, hashtags, and mentioning to make your chatting more fruitful.
A feature to mute any group so that you don’t get unnecessary notifications.
A feature to pin any message, which will be displayed at the top of the chat screen.
Share any file with a maximum size of 2GB ormore.
How Does Telegram Make Money | Telegram Revenue Model
Telegram Revenue (In-App Purchases)4GB
Telegram does not make any profit from its application and services. In 2020, there was zero revenue made. The founders believe in providing fast and secure messaging. Telegram does not believe in selling ads for promotion because the personal data shared with advertisers could go against its ethos. Telegram. In June 2022, Telegram launched Telegram Premium, a subscription model that offers extended limits, faster download speed, and larger file uploads.
Although the company does have backup plans in case of urgent money, Telegram would look for non-essential paid options to generate money. Telegram prioritizes its customers the most and provides them with the best features for free. Telegram usually makes money from its founders, which is a significant source of income. Telegram also started offering a variety of in-app purchases, such as premium stickers and emoji packs. These purchases generate revenue for Telegram through the App Store and Google Play Store.
Current Revenue Streams
Telegram has innovatively expanded its revenue streams, adapting to the evolving digital verticals while maintaining its user-centric philosophy.
Telegram Revenue Streams
Here’s a closer look at the primary sources through which Telegram generates revenue:
In-app Purchases
Telegram introduced “Telegram Stars,” an in-app payment system that allows users to buy digital goods and services within the platform’s mini-apps, such as games and productivity tools. This system not only enhances the user experience by integrating a seamless transaction process but also adheres to the digital product sale guidelines of major app stores. Users can purchase Stars directly in the app and use them for a variety of digital products, enhancing engagement within the Telegram ecosystem. Additionally, these Stars can be converted to TON, the native token of The Open Network, through the Fragment exchange, highlighting Telegram’s innovative approach to in-app purchases.
Premium Subscriptions
Telegram Premium, launched as a voluntary subscription service, offers users additional exclusive features while supporting the app’s development. Features like doubled limits, 4GB file uploads, and advanced chat management are just a few of the benefits that enhance user interaction and platform utility. This subscription model is part of Telegram’s sustainable monetization strategy, driven by user contributions rather than traditional advertising, allowing the platform to remain independent and prioritize user privacy and satisfaction.
Sponsored Messages
The Telegram Ad Platform facilitates the creation of sponsored messages displayed in large public channels with over 1000 subscribers. These messages are designed to increase audience loyalty and boost brand engagement without disrupting the user experience. Sponsored messages on Telegram are unique as they do not contain external links; instead, they direct users to the brand’s channel, fostering a more immersive interaction. This method of advertising emphasizes content quality and relevance, aiming to build long-term trust and loyalty among users.
Through these diversified revenue streams, Telegram continues to thrive as a powerful messaging platform, balancing profitability with its commitment to user privacy and satisfaction. The strategic implementation of these monetization methods underscores Telegram’s unique business approach, setting it apart from other messaging apps in the market.
Here’s a detailed overview of Telegram’s global downloads on the App Store and Google Play since 2017:
Telegram App Downloads
Key Features of Telegram
Telegram offers tons of features to make messaging convenient for users. Some of the features are-
Lock Chat – where you can lock any of your chats with a password.
Self-destructing Media – where you can put a timer on any of your media, and it will be destroyed after that specific time.
Two-step verification – where you can protect your account from being hacked with two steps of verification.
Delete sender’s messages – where you can delete any message or chat from both sides (receiver and sender).
Telegram Premium – It is a paid version of Telegram that includes exclusive additional features. Telegram Premium features with a higher upload size, fast download speed, Premium Stickers, Advanced Chat Management, and more.
Telegram offers dozens of features and user preferences. The Telegram app is specially designed for people above the age of 16 years, with no parental controls overhead. This messaging application targets the youth with many end-to-end encrypted features.
Comparison with Other Messaging Platforms
Revenue Models of Other Apps
When comparing Telegram to other messaging platforms like WhatsApp, the revenue models reveal distinct approaches. WhatsApp, owned by Meta, primarily utilizes the WhatsApp Business API to support businesses in automating communication and managing customer interactions effectively. This includes features like approved message templates and conversational chatbots, which enhance the customer experience by personalizing interactions based on the user’s profile. Additionally, WhatsApp introduced a payment feature in India, allowing direct bank transfers within the app, ensuring secure transactions without storing sensitive financial data.
In contrast, Telegram focuses on user contributions and minimal advertising through its unique features, such as Telegram Premium and sponsored messages. Telegram Premium offers enhanced capabilities for a subscription fee, while sponsored messages in large public channels provide a non-intrusive advertising option, aligning with Telegram’s user privacy commitment.
User Privacy and Data Handling
Privacy and security are paramount in today’s digital communication industry. Telegram and WhatsApp both offer end-to-end encryption, but their implementation differs significantly. WhatsApp encrypts all communications by default, ensuring that only the communicating users can access the content. However, its backups stored on cloud services are not encrypted, which could pose a security risk.
Telegram, on the other hand, provides optional end-to-end encryption through its “Secret Chats” feature, which is not enabled by default. Regular chats use client-server encryption and are stored on Telegram’s servers, accessible across multiple devices. This flexibility is appealing to those who prioritize convenience but raises concerns for users seeking stringent privacy measures. Telegram’s commitment to user privacy is further emphasized by features like self-destructing messages and customizable privacy settings, which are not as prevalent on WhatsApp.
Market Positioning
The market positioning of Telegram and WhatsApp reflects their differing priorities and user base appeal. WhatsApp’s widespread adoption and default encryption make it a preferred choice for everyday users seeking reliable and straightforward communication. Its integration into the broader Meta ecosystem also provides seamless connectivity with other services, appealing to a vast global audience.
Conversely, Telegram appeals to users who value privacy, flexibility, and extensive features. Its ability to handle large groups and channels, coupled with robust file-sharing capabilities (supporting files up to 2GB), positions it as a versatile platform suitable for both personal and professional use. Telegram’s design and open API also attract tech-savvy users and developers looking for a customizable and secure messaging environment.
Both platforms have carved niches that cater to specific user needs, whether it’s enhancing user privacy or integrating business functionalities. The choice between Telegram and WhatsApp often depends on the user’s priorities, such as default security features versus flexible privacy controls and rich feature sets.
Most Popular Global Mobile Messenger Apps as of February 2025, based on Number of Monthly Active Users
As of February 2025, WhatsApp leads the global messaging space with 2 billion monthly active users, reflecting its deep penetration in international markets, especially outside the U.S. In comparison, WeChat reported over 1.38 billion users, and Facebook Messenger had around 947 million users globally. The rise of instant messaging services—allowing real-time text communication over the internet—has been fueled by the widespread adoption of smartphones and mobile apps. These platforms have evolved far beyond simple text, now offering group chats, multimedia sharing (images, videos, audio), and interactive features like stickers and emoticons, making them versatile tools for both personal and professional communication.
Telegram’s steadfast focus on privacy and security, while a significant unique selling proposition, also brings forth substantial regulatory challenges. The platform’s commitment to user privacy and its encrypted communication services limit its ability to regulate content effectively. This has led to controversies, especially when governments demand oversight over illegal activities. The absence of a clear procedure for moderating public channels based on government requests can lead to speculation and uncertainty about Telegram’s operations, potentially affecting its reputation and user trust.
Competition
In the competitive circles of messaging apps, Telegram faces formidable opponents like WhatsApp, Viber, and Slack, each with its own set of advanced features and user base. While Telegram prioritizes privacy and speed, its competitors often integrate more comprehensive business tools and broader ecosystem connections, which might attract a segment of users looking for more than just secure messaging. Balancing innovation in privacy with competitive features that appeal to a broader audience remains a critical challenge for Telegram.
Sustainability Concerns
Despite its popularity, Telegram’s business model, which prioritizes user convenience over profit generation, raises sustainability concerns. The platform’s reluctance to monetize through traditional methods like advertising or data selling, while admirable, means it must rely on alternative revenue streams such as optional paid features and in-app purchases. This approach may not sustain the financial needs required for scaling operations and developing new technologies. Furthermore, its historical lack of revenue generation as of 2020 puts additional pressure on the platform to find viable long-term financial strategies without compromising its core values.
Conclusion
By weaving together innovative in-app purchases, a premium subscription model, and non-intrusive sponsored messages, Telegram has carved out a unique niche. It has demonstrated that a business model can thrive on principles that prioritize user benefits over sheer profit, highlighting its unique selling proposition (USP) as a haven for secure and private communication. This strategic focus has not only distinguished Telegram among its peers but has also set a benchmark for integrating user-centric values with sustainable monetization strategies in the tech industry. Looking ahead, Telegram’s approach hints at broader implications for messaging platforms and digital businesses at large. Its ability to generate revenue while steadfastly maintaining its core commitments presents a powerful case study on the potential harmonization between user privacy and business growth. Telegram’s model, underscored by a veteran understanding of business intricacies and a deep commitment to research-backed solutions, sets a compelling precedent for future innovation in technology, privacy, and user engagement.
Telegram is a privacy-focused secure messaging application that has grown immensely in the last few years. There’s a lot to talk about when it comes to Telegram. For now, we have the best knowledge regarding its business model.
FAQs
What is the Telegram App?
Telegram is a cloud-based, cross-platform instant messaging service that offers fast, secure messaging, groups, channels, bots, and secret chats.
How much is Telegram’s revenue?
Telegram does not make any profit from its application and services. As of 2020, there is zero revenue made. However, they have started their in-app purchases worldwide and generated 6.1 million U.S. dollars in February 2024.
Who is the founder of Telegram?
Pavel Durov and Nikolai Durov founded Telegram in 2013. Pavel Durov is also Telegram’s CEO.
Who is Pavel Durav?
Pavel Durav is the co-founder and CEO of Telegram.
Is Telegram an Indian app?
No, Telegram was created by a Germany-based tech organization – Durov Software Industry.
Which is the best alternative to Telegram?
Signal messaging app is the best alternative to Telegram.
Who are the top competitors of Telegram?
Telegram’s top competitors include:
Viber
Signal
WhatsApp
Slack
Intis Telecom
How Telegram earn money?
Telegram makes money through various methods such as affiliate marketing and referral programs. Channel or group administrators can share affiliate links or referral codes, earning commissions for every purchase or sign-up made through these referrals.
What is Telegram business model?
Telegram’s business model includes earning from in-app purchases, advertising, promotions, and forming partnerships and collaborations. This model supports the provision of free services to users while also funding its operational needs and promoting growth.
How can businesses utilize Telegram?
Businesses can use Telegram by integrating bots that automate message processing and responses. These bots facilitate the integration of existing tools and workflows, or the implementation of AI assistants to manage communications within the platform.
Can you legitimately earn money using Telegram?
Yes, earning money on Telegram is legitimate. Channel owners can profit through sponsored posts and advertisements. The income from these sources varies depending on the number of subscribers and their engagement levels in the channel.
Is Telegram profitable?
No, Telegram is not yet profitable but is generating revenue through Premium subscriptions, in-app purchases, and sponsored messages.
How to make money on Telegram?
You can make money on Telegram by creating channels or groups to sell products, offer paid content, or promote services. Many creators also earn through sponsored posts, affiliate marketing, or by building mini-apps that use Telegram’s in-app currency, Telegram Stars.
Telegram has transformed from a secure messaging app to a powerful platform for content creators, entrepreneurs, and communities. With millions of monthly active users (as of 2025), it is clear that Telegram is now being seen as a serious monetization tool.
Whether you’re a content creator, business owner, or just someone looking to generate passive income, Telegram offers plenty of opportunities to earn without the need to spend a fortune on ads or tools.
Let’s discuss about the most effective ways to make money using Telegram in 2025.
Telegram is a fast, cloud-based communication platform that’s quietly become a favourite for millions around the globe. Telegram is best known for its speed, simplicity, and top-tier security available on both mobile and desktop.
Originally launched in Russia, the app has exploded in popularity worldwide and is now the third most downloaded messaging app, with its biggest user bases in India, Russia, and the United States.
So, what makes Telegram stand out?
Unlike many other platforms, Telegram has no ads. This ad-free experience has helped Telegram attract a more savvy and trend-aware audience from crypto communities and startup enthusiasts to educators and creators.
Monthly Active Users (MAUs): Telegram has surpassed 1 billion monthly active users, as announced by CEO Pavel Durov in March 2025.
Premium Subscribers: As of December 2024, Telegram had 12 million Premium subscription users worldwide, tripling from December 2023.
Revenue Generation: In 2024, Telegram generated $342 million through its premium services and alternative coin offerings.
In-App Purchase Revenue: Telegram earned approximately $80.6 million from iOS in-app purchases in 2024, accounting for roughly 69% of its total in-app revenue.
It offers exclusive content through a private, paid-access channel. Think of it like a VIP club where users pay a monthly fee for value-packed updates, expert tips, templates, or insider content.
How it works:
Lock premium posts for paid members.
Use Telegram’s native subscription tools or third-party bots for payment.
Focus on in-demand niches like fitness, tech, or career advice.
Tip: Build trust first with free content before pitching your paid channel.
2. Affiliate Marketing
Affiliate marketing is one of the easiest ways to earn passive income on Telegram.
When someone buys via your link, you earn a commission.
Use bots or scheduled posts to keep offers flowing.
Tip: Recommend only products that truly align with your channel’s audience.
3. Sell Digital Products
Whether you’re a designer, educator, or coach, Telegram is a perfect space to sell digital goods like eBooks, online courses, guides, templates, and cheat sheets.
Why it works:
Low overhead, no shipping.
You keep 100% of the revenue.
Deliver files instantly via bots.
Tip:Engage with followers to find out what they need and build products around that.
4. Sponsored Content & Brand Deals
Once you build a sizable and engaged Telegram channel, brands will pay to promote their products to your community.
How to monetize:
Offer sponsored posts or product mentions.
Charge based on your channel’s reach or engagement rate.
Build a media kit with pricing and audience stats.
Tip: Don’t overdo ads. Keep promotions authentic to maintain credibility.
5. Offer Coaching or Consulting
Are you an expert in a niche like finance, marketing, or design? Telegram can become your personal client acquisition channel.
What to do:
Promote 1:1 coaching or group sessions.
Use bots to schedule calls and collect payments.
Share free tips to showcase your expertise.
Tip: Host live Q&As or webinars inside your group to drive sales.
Running an eCommerce brand? Telegram is a great, low-cost way to sell physical products directly to your audience.
How to set up:
Create a Telegram store or group for product updates.
Use bots to manage inventory and orders.
Drop exclusive deals to drive urgency.
Tip: Use product photos, unboxing videos, and limited-time offers to increase conversions.
7. Monetize Telegram Bots
If you’re tech-savvy, building bots for Telegram can be a passive income source. The benefit of Bots on Telegram is that they can generate passive income once created, so if you’ve been wondering how to make money on Telegram, it’s the perfect time to try it out.
Tip: Keep the bot lightweight, valuable, and bug-free for long-term success.
8. Curated News or Content Channels
Telegram is perfect for niche content aggregators. Think of a daily curated news feed around crypto, startups, AI, or productivity hacks.
How to monetize:
Combine this with affiliate marketing or paid access.
Charge users for premium newsletters.
Partner with brands for native placements.
Tip: Use Telegram’s formatting and media support to make your posts visually engaging.
9. Launch Poll-Based Engagement & Rewards
Brands and creators are now using Telegram polls and gamification to engage users and earn.
Monetization ideas:
Partner with brands to run sponsored polls.
Offer users small incentives for participating.
Sell analytics data (ethically, with permission).
Tip: Gamify the experience with rewards, badges, or leaderboards.
10. Run Paid Workshops or Webinars
Telegram can double as your virtual classroom. Whether it’s a 5-day challenge, skill boot camp, or niche training session, you can host paid educational events.
Setup:
Use private groups or channels.
Charge for entry or access to recordings.
Promote the event across platforms.
Tip: Offer bonuses (e.g. templates, recordings) to justify pricing.
How to Grow and Promote Your Telegram Channel?
The key to monetization is growing the Telegram channel smartly. We’ve compiled a list of tips to help you attract, engage, and retain subscribers:
Build a Strong Brand Identity
Choose a unique, memorable name that reflects your brand voice—don’t copy competitors.
Design a standout logo that’s visually consistent with your brand values.Write a compelling channel description that clearly states your purpose and benefits.
Create Quality Content That Connects
Share high-value, engaging content that solves real problems for your audience.
Mix it with photos, GIFs, short videos, polls, and voice notes.
Watermark visuals to increase brand recall and prevent content theft.
Be Consistent and Relevant
Stick to a posting schedule, consistency builds trust and expectation.
Regularly clean up outdated or irrelevant posts to keep the channel fresh and focused.
If you want to turn your Telegram channel into a revenue-generating machine, the key is trust. Build a loyal community by consistently delivering real value, whether it’s insights, tools, or entertainment. Plan ahead with a content calendar that balances promotions and high-value content, so your audience stays engaged without feeling “sold to.”
Keep an eye on performance metrics like subscriber growth, engagement rates, and conversions. Use Telegram’s built-in analytics, and pair it with third-party tools like Combot or Telemetr to track what’s working and where to improve.
Conclusion
Telegram offers enormous earning potential. It does, however, take time, strategy, and consistent effort to see any real results. You will need to create valuable, high-quality content, post regularly, build trust with your audience, and always stay a step ahead of the competition to succeed. If you stay focused and play smart, Telegram can grow into a powerful and profitable revenue stream.
Telegram is a cloud-based, cross-platform instant messaging service that offers fast, secure messaging, groups, channels, bots, and secret chats.
Who is the founder of Telegram?
Pavel Durov and Nikolai Durov founded Telegram in 2013. Pavel Durov is also Telegram’s CEO.
Is Telegram an Indian app?
No, Telegram was created by a Germany-based tech organization – Durov Software Industry.
How to make money on Telegram?
You can make money on Telegram by creating channels or groups to sell products, offer paid content, or promote services. Many creators also earn through sponsored posts, affiliate marketing, or by building mini-apps that use Telegram’s in-app currency, Telegram Stars.
Over-the-top (OTT) communication services like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal are subject to structured control, according to India’s telecom regulator. Law enforcement organisations and telecom providers expressed worries about security and spam control, which prompted this call.
Speaking on the second day of the India Mobile Congress 2024, Anil Kumar Lahoti, chairman of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai), said that although over-the-top (OTT) communication platforms have greatly benefitted businesses and consumers, legal concerns brought up by traditional telecom providers and law enforcement agencies indicate that these platforms ought to be governed by a formal regulatory framework, as per a media report.
Lahoti underlined that, given the cross-border nature of OTT services, regulators worldwide need to strike a balance between promoting innovation and upholding a just and competitive economy. This equilibrium is essential given the growing power of OTT platforms.
Challenges in Bringing OTT Communication Platforms Under Regulatory Umbrella
Sector analysts note that there have been challenges in reducing spam and online frauds on OTT platforms for both the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and Trai. Since neither the DoT nor the Trai now have the power to take legal action against potential violators, this issue emphasises the jurisdictional challenges in regulating these platforms.
Instead, in accordance with the intermediate provisions of the IT Act, these platforms are governed by the Ministry of Electronics & IT. Telecom firms have expressed concern about the rise in spam on over-the-top (OTT) platforms. They contend that because OTT services are not governed by DoT or Trai, efforts to address these problems are still ineffective.
DoT Opposes Regulating Telegram and WhatsApp
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT), in contrast to Trai’s regulatory drive, stated in August of this year that it has no plans to control over-the-top (OTT) communication platforms like Telegram and WhatsApp. This occurred while telecom companies persisted in advocating for the “same-service, same-rule” concept, contending that communication applications need to be subject to the same regulations as conventional telecom services.
Officials stated that over-the-top (OTT) services are exempt from the new Telecommunications Act of 2023. OTT communication platforms are being interpreted by operators as falling under the Act’s definition of “telecommunication,” yet this interpretation is still up for debate. OTT service providers, on the other hand, argue that they shouldn’t be subject to extra regulation because they are already covered by the IT Act.
Telecommunications Act 2023
“Telecommunication” is defined as the sending and receiving of messages via wire, radio, optical, or electromagnetic networks in the Telecommunications Act 2023. According to officials, in order for a service to be included in this definition, message transmission must occur through a switch that is not connected to the network.
However, with OTT platforms, messages are conveyed via data packets, and telecom firms handle the switching of these packets; customers are already charged for this service. Hence, authorities contend that OTT platforms do not satisfy the technical parameters for Act-mandated regulation.
For a while now, Telegram has been in the news. The CEO and founder, Pavel Durov, was detained on 25 August on suspicion of permitting unlawful acts on the messaging platform. Despite Durov’s denials, Telegram has taken action. The corporation has been seen to be pushing moderation somewhat as of late.
The corporation had previously stated on the prior FAQ page that private chats were shielded from requests to be moderated. However, this is not the case anymore. The statement is no longer available. All Telegram conversations, including group chats, remain private amongst their members, according to Telegram’s answer page as of September 5. Requests about them are not handled by the company. This statement has already been removed, though.
The preceding statement has been substituted by the following: All Telegram applications include “Report” buttons that enable users to flag illegal content for our moderators with a few taps. These buttons are followed by instructions on how to report content.
The CEO’s arrest for platform moderation led Telegram to make the process of reporting a chat more prominently posted in their FAQ section, while the option to report has always been there.
Speculation That Telegram May Disable Encryption
Telegram has described the accusations as “false rumours” and denied any involvement in the potential termination of end-to-end encryption on the app. A recent modification to the FAQ has caused these rumors to proliferate. According to the company’s statement, the modification to the FAQ has merely served to clarify the process of reporting information on Telegram, including through Europe’s DSA.
“As an alternative to forwarding, you can always report messages from any Telegram group to the moderators. Private conversations remain private, even though you have the option to notify moderators of a new incoming chat by going to Block > Report. There were no changes to how Telegram runs, as anyone can observe in the open source code,” the company claims.
Allegations on Telegram
There is room for up to 2,000,00 members in Telegram’s huge group. Despite how appealing it is, this is the main issue that opponents have with it. They think it facilitates the dissemination of false information and gives people a place to talk about controversial topics including child exploitation, conspiracy theories, hate speech, and terrorism.
More attention and demands for greater responsibility have fallen on the Telegram app in the UK after it was found to host far-right channels that were instrumental in organising deadly disruption in multiple English cities last month.
There were growing pains that allowed criminals to more easily abuse our platform, as Pavel Durov acknowledged in his message, due to the “abrupt increase” (which he estimated at 950 million) in the number of users of the messaging app.
The messaging software Telegram is under fire for allegedly facilitating the spread of extremism and disinformation around the world. Paris recently detained CEO Pavel Durov on charges of crime. In a blog post, Telegram denied the charges and said that CEO Pavel Durov travels across Europe often and has nothing to conceal. Holding the platform or its owner accountable for misuse is absurd, according to the company.
Allegations of gambling, exam paper leaks, child pornography, and stock market manipulation have put Telegram under investigation in India.
Internet users have come up with memes that read, “Darr ka mahol hai.” in reaction to the arrest. If the Indian government’s inquiry into these claims turns out to be accurate, Telegram might be banned in the country.
Take a look at the nations that had previously banned Telegram prior to these new changes in this regard.
Country
Step taken on Telegram
United Kingdom
Demands more stringent monitoring
Spain
Mar 2023: Temporary prohibition
Norway
Government officials are not allowed to use
Germany
No ban, Penalty in the form on fine is imposed
Russia
Prohibited from 2018 through 2020
Belarus
Officially not banned, but extremely risky
China
Banned since 2015
Iran
Banned since 2018
Thailand
Banned since 2020
More details on why Telegram was banned in these nations
UK
There have been demands for more regulation of Telegram channels following allegations that they were utilised to organise anti-immigrant riots in the UK in August. Telegram was temporarily banned in Spain in March because to copyright concerns, but the ruling was quickly reversed. Meanwhile, out of concern for national security, Norway has banned government staff from using Telegram on work computers.
Spain
After a judge sided with large media companies in March 2023 on allegations of unauthorised distribution of copyrighted content, Telegram was momentarily banned in Spain. Criticism led to the swift reversal of the ban, which underscores the gravity of the app’s possible abuse and its influence on millions of users.
Norway
Concerned about potential threats to national security, especially from Russia and China, Norway has limited government officials’ use of Telegram on work devices. However, the country has not implemented a complete ban. The ruling highlights the worries regarding the platform’s ability to disseminate false information.
Germany
In 2022, after discovering 64 channels that broke hate speech regulations, Germany contemplated banning Telegram. Telegram, on the other hand, agreed to remove content that German authorities found unlawful after the government fined the service €5 million for noncompliance.
Russia
Due to the platform’s refusal to provide the Russian authorities with user data, Telegram was banned from 2018 to 2020. Government agencies nevertheless used Telegram for official communications, proving the app’s popularity despite the prohibition.
Belarus
While Telegram is not outright forbidden in Belarus, there are several channels that users should be cautious of using. Users who continue to follow certain Telegram channels that the government has designated as radical may be subject to harsh punishments, including jail time. In spite of these dangers, the app played an essential role in the protests of 2020 and 2021.
China
Since 2015, Telegram has been restricted in China. A distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) assault on Telegram’s servers led to the ban; some analysts suspect the Chinese government may have been behind the attack, which is why the app was censored. Chinese human rights attorneys allegedly utilised Telegram before the ban to voice their criticism of the ruling Communist Party and administration.
Iran
In 2018, protests demanding economic reforms led to the prohibition of Telegram in Iran. In response to accusations that the app was helping to spread discontent, the Iranian government promoted the usage of domestic alternatives. There are still a lot of Iranians who use VPNs to access Telegram, even though it’s banned.
Thailand
Since 2020, when it was utilised to coordinate anti-government demonstrations, Telegram has been prohibited in Thailand. By allowing protesters to better coordinate their actions against the government, the platform played a significant role in the crackdown on opposition that ultimately led to the ban.
According to reports, Telegram’s founder and CEO, Pavel Durov, was arrested in France on August 24, 2024, due to an inquiry into the messaging app’s lack of moderators. Russian officials at the French embassy have called for Pavel Durov’s consular access and the protection of his rights. According to the embassy, France has thus far “avoided engagement” with Pavel Durov’s position.
There was a lack of moderators on Telegram and Durov allegedly allowed a wide range of crimes to flourish because of this, according to media reports. He was arrested as part of a preliminary police inquiry. It is “absurd” to blame a platform or its owner for abuse, according to a post on X by Telegram’s official account.
The arrest of Durov was not a “political decision,” according to French President Emmanuel Macron‘s Monday post on X, which also addressed the matter. “France is a country that is ‘deeply committed to freedom of expression and communication,’” he said, “but in a state that is governed by the rule of law,’ freedoms are protected within legal frameworks, both online and off, to safeguard citizens and their basic rights.”
What Exactly Is Telegram?
Similar to other messaging apps like WhatsApp, Signal, and iMessage, Telegram’s main function is to facilitate communication between users. For a large portion of its user base, it serves solely as a platform for friendly conversation.
On the other hand, compared to its competitors, this app has more social networking options. Like Telegram’s broadcast “channels” that allow users to “follow” particular accounts, group chats can be as big as the user wants them to be.
More like a Facebook group or an old-school online forum than an instant messaging service, those channels also allow followers to write comments under posts and have back-and-forth conversations with each other.
Why Indian Government is Considering Banning Telegram?
There are more than 5 million registered users of the Telegram messaging software in India, and it could be banned. The company was the subject of an extortion and gambling probe that was initiated by the Centre.
The investigation’s results will determine the messaging app’s fate in India. The company’s P2P communications are the subject of an investigation by the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, according to a report by the prominent media outlet.
An official has stated that the government is looking into Telegram because of allegations that it is used for illegal purposes including gambling and extortion. The results of the investigation could lead to the prohibition of the messaging service.
Role’ of Telegram in UGC-NEET paper leak
In the past, Telegram has been criticized for helping to distribute false information and facilitate criminal activity. Leaks of the medical entrance exam paper from the recent UGC-NEET controversy have further heightened attention. There were reports that the paper was going for prices ranging from INR 5,000 to INR 10,000 on the marketplace.
Still, Telegram insists it fully complies with Indian law, no matter how many obstacles it faces. The corporation has appointed a chief compliance officer and a nodal officer, and compliance reports are published monthly. But because Telegram doesn’t have an office in India, the government has said it has trouble engaging with the company.
Telegram and other social media companies were served letters by the IT ministry in October 2023, requesting that they delete child sexual abuse material (CSAM) from their sites.
This article is contributed by Neha Kulwal, Country Manager, Admitad India.
With about 660 million users worldwide, messaging service Telegram is growing fast to become a high-engagement platform that consumers can leverage not just for their regular conversation, but for shopping and learning with the possible existence of so many channels. Besides, Telegram also emerged as the most in-demand traffic source in the affiliate industry, turning out to be the best for existing publishers and even for the individuals who have a huge audience base on their app.
Telegram allows everybody to easily communicate via private messaging, channels, or groups. To maximize the earnings, most publishers sign up with an affiliate network because it’s a one-stop platform where they can find a wide range of offers, well-known brands to work with, and advanced tools and technologies.
All in one platform
Affiliate networks, being the key source for publishers, plays an important role by allowing them to not just access many campaigns but also provide several monetization opportunities as well. The use of social media, personal recommendations via messengers, and other platforms by publishers push the consumer to the conversion stage. Usually, it can be used for a targeted niche where publishers can share various deals/offers with their users.
With the trust and reliability of messengers among consumers, brands have started allowing products promotion for customer acquisition. The foremost benefit lies in the source of income through affiliate marketing which enables telegrammer a static income for a longer period of time with the same affiliate link. Also, they are not bound to reach out to different brands at the same time as with affiliate networks, they can access multiple brands’ offers across categories to promote.
Consumers nowadays have become very reluctant to find different offers/ deals from different brands. Telegrammers come as a mediator between the brands and consumers providing all the deals on one channel/group. The good news is that Telegram allows you to share affiliate links organically without restrictions so once your communities start expanding, you can look out for affiliate programs based on your niche. It is easy to find affiliate programs on affiliate networks, they can help you find effective campaigns that allow Telegram traffic.
According to Admitad, a 3x growth in the number of orders has been observed via Telegram. As affiliate networks provide multiple solutions like various payment methods, advanced tools, 24*7 steam support, best payouts making it easier for publishers to work hassle-free. For instance, a telegrammer having an audience niche of fashion and beauty can choose a variety of beauty and fashion affiliate programs to promote and earn.
Making money with Telegram
Telegram doesn’t pay for channels or groups themselves, there is no monetization program inside it. However, in late 2020 it was announced that Telegram monetization will be launched any time soon. Even without an official monetization opportunity, Telegram is one of the most popular platforms for advertising. People already make a huge income per month by selling their products, services, or ads on Telegram channels. But, though Telegram offers a lot of money-making opportunities, you have to invest a lot of time and effort to get your Telegram business off the ground, like creating top-notch valuable content, posting consistently, building a loyal following, opting for relevant tools, and making sure you are one step ahead of your competitors. On the Admitad platform, the publishers have earned on an average 6.5 lacs monthly via telegram. If you play your cards right and use the relevant tools, eventually, telegram will become a lucrative revenue stream for you.
In the online space, there are many tools available that can help telegrammers/publishers to monetize their website as well assist them to attract users effectively. One might already be acquainted with some of the tools or are planning to do so. Using at least the two following tools will ease your life greatly: they are multifunctional and rather helpful – Extension for Google Chrome and Telegram Bot.
After adding the Admitad extension to your chrome browser, the publisher can see the main details of the affiliate program in the browser window of the advertiser webpage. Also, any unique deep link can now be created literally in one click. The tools tend to be highly recommended and useful for bloggers.
Telegram Bot by Admitad is the tool that immensely helps to work with the affiliate programs from any device where this messenger is installed. The Bot is useful for any telegrammer to create a short link and can also generate multiple deep links at a go making it convenient for both the users and publisher while keeping a check on their earnings.Telegram bots give the app a competitive advantage over other messengers. Bots can serve a lot of marketing purposes and can save marketers a lot of legwork when communicating with clients.
With the rise in demand for affiliate marketing and with the overall positive responses from the industry, it is sure that affiliate channels have turned out as a win-win situation for both advertisers and publishers. Looking at the positive side, it is best for all brands and publishers to partner with affiliate channels to grow more and look out for better and positive results.
Remember, Telegram is growing in terms of earnings, don’t miss your chance to find your niche and make money online!
