Russia-related call restrictions prompted Telegram's reaction
In a recent development, the popular messaging app, Telegram, has introduced detailed privacy settings for calls, allowing users to control who can call them and even disable calls entirely. This move comes in response to restrictions announced by Roskomnadzor, a Russian agency, which has limited the functionality of calls on Telegram and other messaging apps like WhatsApp, due to concerns over criminal and terrorist activities.
These granular privacy settings provide users with the ability to manage their communication boundaries effectively, despite external regulatory actions. Users can now specify exactly who can call them, allowing calls from everyone, only contacts, or nobody, directly within the app’s privacy settings.
The introduction of these privacy settings by Telegram underscores its commitment to user privacy. This feature, highlighted by Roskomnadzor’s statement, suggests that while Telegram’s privacy options are robust, they are still subject to regulatory challenges locally.
Users can manage these settings within the Telegram app under the Privacy and Security options. While specific user interface steps for calls were not found, Telegram's general privacy settings are accessible via Settings > Privacy and Security, where phone number visibility and other controls are also configured.
It is important to note that the Ministry of Digital Development in Russia has emphasized that access to calls in foreign messengers will be restored if the services comply with Russian laws. However, the ministry's statement does not specify which foreign messengers the statement refers to, nor does it provide a timeline for when access to calls might be restored.
In conclusion, Telegram's call privacy settings allow users to have control over who can call them or turn off calls entirely. This feature, introduced in response to regulatory restrictions in Russia, exemplifies Telegram's broader approach to user privacy amid ongoing governmental restrictions in some regions.
- The current political landscape in Russia has prompted Telegram to introduce detailed technology-based privacy settings for calls, enabling users to control who can call them and even disable calls entirely, demonstrating the app's commitment to user privacy and general news concerning digital rights.
- The ongoing battle between technology companies and local politics is evident in the latest announcement by Roskomnadzor, a Russian agency, which has limited the functionality of calls on Telegram and other messaging apps, citing concerns over criminal and terrorist activities, a concern that extends beyond these specific messengers into the broader realm of general-news discussions about internet regulations and privacy.
