Telegram, the popular messaging app, has been making headlines recently for all the wrong reasons. According to reports, the app has a bot that is selling sensitive personal data of Indian users to willing buyers. This shocking revelation has raised concerns about the privacy and security of Indian citizens.
The bot, which operates independently, is said to be sharing information such as names, addresses, father’s name, and even Aadhaar, Pan Card, and Voter ID numbers. What is even more alarming is that the bot allows users to find the full profile data of another Indian user based on their phone number.
This news has caused a stir among the Indian population, who are now questioning the safety of their personal information on the internet. With the rise of cybercrime and data breaches, this latest development has only added to the growing concerns about online privacy.
The fact that this bot is operating on Telegram, a platform that boasts about its end-to-end encryption, is even more concerning. Telegram has always prided itself on being a secure messaging app, but this incident has raised doubts about its claims.
The bot, which is reportedly run by an anonymous group, has been active for quite some time now. It is said to have a database of over 10 million Indian users, making it a goldmine for anyone looking to buy personal information.
The sale of personal data is not a new phenomenon, but the fact that it is happening on a messaging app is what makes this case unique. Telegram has always been known for its user-friendly interface and its ability to keep conversations private. However, this incident has tarnished its reputation and has left many users feeling betrayed.
The Indian government has also taken notice of this issue and has asked Telegram to provide an explanation. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has issued a notice to the app, seeking details about the bot and its operations. The government has also asked for a response from Telegram on the steps it is taking to ensure the safety and privacy of its users.
In response to the notice, Telegram has stated that it is not responsible for the actions of third-party bots and channels on its platform. The app has also assured its users that their chats and personal information are safe and secure.
However, this incident has once again highlighted the need for stricter regulations and laws to protect the privacy of Indian citizens. With the increasing use of technology and the internet, it has become imperative for the government to take necessary measures to safeguard the personal information of its citizens.
Moreover, it is also the responsibility of the users to be cautious and vigilant while sharing their personal information online. It is important to be aware of the risks and consequences of sharing sensitive data on the internet.
In conclusion, the news of Telegram’s bot selling personal data of Indian users is a wake-up call for both the government and the users. It is high time that strict measures are taken to prevent such incidents from happening in the future. As for the users, it is crucial to be mindful of the information they share online and to use messaging apps and other online platforms with caution. Let us hope that this incident serves as a reminder for everyone to prioritize the safety and privacy of personal information in the digital age.
