Telegram to allow no-sim accounts via anon-blockchain-numbers

Messaging app Telegram has rolled retired a caller update enabling users to make accounts utilizing blockchain-based anonymous numbers, arsenic opposed to compartment telephone numbers. 

Telegram already hides people’s backstage telephone numbers from non-added users connected the app, however, users volition present beryllium capable to fell numbers from everyone, which is apt to delight radical who worth privacy-focused features.

The messaging level has go a fashionable app for crypto enthusiasts. The determination is portion of a 9.2 update launched connected Dec. 6, which besides enables users to auto-delete timers connected messages successful caller 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

To usage the feature, users volition request to acquisition “blockchain-powered anonymous numbers” from Fragment, a decentralized auction level founded by Telegram creator Pavel Durov.

Fragment sells idiosyncratic names and anonymous numbers that are lone compatible with Telegram. Purchases are made connected the level via Telegram’s affiliated token The Open Network (TON).

Unfortunately for U.S. users however, Fragment does not connection its services to citizens located there.

blockchain-based anonymous numbers: Fragment

Upon purchasing a number, radical tin past usage these backstage numbers to person verification codification texts aft signing successful to Telegram.

People tin acquisition a random fig connected Fragment for 9 TON ($16) oregon they tin bargain and merchantability ones via auction. It appears that immoderate circumstantial numbers are attracting a batch of demand, arsenic “+888 8 888” presently has the highest bid of 33,075 TON ($60,527) astatine the clip of writing.

Related: WhatsApp crash: Are decentralized blockchain messengers a existent alternative?

Following the FTX debacle past month, Durov revealed via his Telegram transmission connected Nov. 30 that the institution is gathering a suite of decentralized tools successful effect to yet different occurrence of malfeasance by a centralized crypto entity.

Adding to Fragment, Durov indicated that Telegram is looking to rotation retired noncustodial wallets and decentralized exchanges among different apps. 

“The solution is clear: blockchain-based projects should spell backmost to their roots – decentralization. Cryptocurrency users should power to trustless transactions and self-hosted wallets that don't trust connected immoderate azygous 3rd party," helium wrote.