Telegram Archives

AppWizard

February 10, 2026

Russia: “Slowing down” of Telegram messaging app another blow for freedom of expression

Russian authorities imposed significant slowdowns on the Telegram messenger service, prompting concerns from Marie Struthers, Amnesty International's Eastern Europe and Central Asia Director. She argued that these actions restrict free communication rather than protect against online crime. Struthers noted a trend of increased state control over online communications in Russia, leading users to seek circumvention tools or less secure alternatives. On February 10, restrictions on access to Telegram were initiated by Roskomnadzor, resulting in widespread disruptions. In August 2025, Roskomnadzor limited voice and video calls on Telegram and WhatsApp due to their alleged use in criminal activities, followed by partial restrictions on these platforms. Other messaging services, such as Signal and Viber, have also been blocked. Additionally, Russian authorities promoted the domestically developed MAX messenger, raising concerns among human rights groups regarding its security and privacy.

AppWizard

February 10, 2026

Google warns millions of android users as virus spreads via WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and more Apps; How to stay safe

Google has issued a warning to Android users about a dangerous malware called Arsink Malware, which is a Remote Access Trojan (RAT) capable of stealing personal information and taking control of infected devices. It spreads through apps that appear legitimate, often masquerading as "Mod" or "Premium" versions of popular applications. Arsink malware typically infiltrates devices via Telegram channels, Discord posts, third-party websites, and suspicious download links. Google has confirmed that no versions of Arsink are available on the Play Store and that devices with Google Play Protect enabled are automatically safeguarded against such threats. Google is also working with researchers to dismantle the infrastructure associated with this malware. To stay safe, users are advised to download apps only from the official Google Play Store, avoid 'Mod' or 'Premium' versions of apps, refrain from clicking on suspicious links, carefully check app permissions, keep Google Play Protect enabled, and regularly update their devices for security patches.

AppWizard

February 10, 2026

Telegram messaging app faces fines in Russia, state media report

Telegram faces potential fines of up to 64 million roubles (approximately [openai_gpt model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Summarize the content and extract only the fact described in the text bellow. The summary shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. Text: In a significant development for the Telegram messaging platform, the company is poised to face potential fines totaling up to 64 million roubles (approximately [cyberseo_openai model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Rewrite a news story for a business publication, in a calm style with creativity and flair based on text below, making sure it reads like human-written text in a natural way. The article shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. The article shall NOT start from a title. Response language English. Generate HTML-formatted content using tag for a sub-heading. You can use only , , , , and HTML tags if necessary. Text: MOSCOW, Feb 10 (Reuters) - The Telegram messaging app faces fines of up ‌to 64 million roubles ($0.82 million) ‌in eight upcoming Russian court hearings, state news agency RIA reported on Tuesday, ⁠citing ‌court documents.It said the hearings were in ‍connection with alleged failures by Telegram to remove information required by Russian law.Telegram, founded ‌by Russian-born entrepreneur Pavel Durov, is a hugely important channel for private and public communications in and ⁠about Russia. Newsmakers of all kinds, including the Kremlin and the exiled opposition, ‍all ⁠use it constantly to distribute information instantly to ⁠a large audience.($1 = 77.3000 roubles)(Reporting ‌by Reuters; editing by ‌Mark Trevelyan)" temperature="0.3"].82 million) across eight forthcoming court hearings in Russia. This information was reported by the state news agency RIA, which referenced official court documents outlining the situation. Legal Challenges Ahead The upcoming hearings are centered around allegations that Telegram has not complied with Russian legal requirements to remove specific content. This situation underscores the ongoing tension between digital communication platforms and regulatory frameworks in Russia. Founded by Pavel Durov, a Russian-born entrepreneur, Telegram has emerged as a vital tool for both private and public discourse within the country. Its role in facilitating communication is particularly pronounced among various stakeholders, including government entities and opposition groups. The platform serves as a crucial medium for disseminating information rapidly to a broad audience, making it an essential player in the landscape of Russian media. As the hearings approach, the implications for Telegram could be significant, not only in terms of financial penalties but also regarding its operational dynamics within Russia's complex regulatory environment. " max_tokens="3500" temperature="0.7" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" frequency_penalty="frequency_penalty"].82 million) in eight upcoming court hearings in Russia due to alleged failures to remove content as required by Russian law. The hearings are based on information reported by the state news agency RIA, citing official court documents. Telegram, founded by Pavel Durov, is a key platform for private and public communications in Russia, used by various stakeholders including the Kremlin and opposition groups.

AppWizard

February 10, 2026

Moscow chokes Telegram as it pushes state-backed rival app

Russia's internet regulatory body, Roskomnadzor, is throttling Telegram for alleged national law violations, part of a broader strategy to promote a controlled domestic online service. The Russian government threatens internet platforms with slowdowns or bans for non-compliance with laws that require Russian user data to be stored domestically and prevent use for "criminal and terrorist purposes." Critics view these regulations as a means for increased state control and surveillance. Roskomnadzor plans to introduce phased restrictions on Telegram, which is widely used in Russia. Moscow is promoting a state-backed competitor, Max, that offers additional services. Users experienced slow traffic on Telegram following the announcement. Pavel Durov, Telegram's founder, has faced tension with Russian authorities and legal troubles in France related to allegations against Telegram, although travel restrictions were lifted in July 2025.

AppWizard

January 30, 2026

UK-based founders accused of sharing app data with Iranian authorities

Hadi and Mahdi Anjidani lead TS Information Technology, a UK branch of the Iranian firm Towse’e Saman Information Technology, known for developing Gap Messenger, a domestic alternative to Telegram. The company is registered in West Sussex, UK. Gap Messenger claims to be encrypted and not share user data with third parties, but Iranian digital rights researchers have raised concerns about its involvement in state surveillance, supported by leaked emails from Iran’s attorney general's office from 2022. Mahdi Anjidani, the CEO, has publicly supported government regulation of foreign messaging apps and has identified himself as a proponent of the Islamic Revolution. Gap Messenger operates within Iran's state-controlled internet, often during internet shutdowns linked to protests. The Anjidani brothers' business operations suggest a close alignment with Iranian authorities, as domestic messaging platforms typically require significant political backing to operate.

AppWizard

January 30, 2026

Google’s New Android Lockdown—Do Not Install These Apps

Google is tightening its policies on sideloading practices, allowing app installations only from verified developers to enhance user security and reduce risks associated with malicious software. The company has removed numerous harmful applications and accounts to combat the exploitation of its ecosystem. Cybercriminals are replicating popular applications like Google, YouTube, and WhatsApp to deceive users into downloading malicious software, which often masquerades as “mod” or “pro” versions. These counterfeit apps can install the Arsink Remote Access Trojan (RAT), which allows hackers to control devices, record audio, harvest personal information, and perform unauthorized actions. The Arsink operation has affected tens of thousands of victims across approximately 143 countries. Users are advised to avoid installing apps from messengers, online forums, or direct links and to use official app stores instead. Google confirms that the RAT is not infecting Play Store apps and encourages users to keep Play Protect enabled.

AppWizard

January 30, 2026

Centre cracks down on Android scam; blocks fraud app, Telegram channels, warns users

The Indian government has taken action against the Wingo app, a cyber fraud network that sent fraudulent SMS messages from users' devices without consent. The app's digital infrastructure has been blocked, and four associated Telegram channels with 153,000 users have been shut down. Over 53 related videos have been removed from YouTube. The Wingo app lured users with promises of quick financial gains, encouraging them to deposit funds for minor tasks or investments, but then either shut down or blocked accounts after receiving money. Payments were made through UPI or personal wallets, complicating traceability. Users were asked for access to personal data and provided with fake customer care numbers. Android users are advised to avoid apps promising guaranteed profits, verify app legitimacy, and refrain from granting unnecessary permissions. The government recommends uninstalling suspicious apps and reporting them, as well as contacting the cybercrime helpline at 1930 for assistance.

AppWizard

January 28, 2026

5 Best Alternatives to WhatsApp in 2026 (Private & Secure)

The rise of encrypted messaging apps is driven by privacy concerns, as users seek alternatives to traditional platforms that may compromise security. Corporations, hackers, and governments actively monitor online communications for various reasons, making secure messaging essential. Several leading secure messaging apps have been identified: - Signal: Known for robust security features, including end-to-end encryption and open-source transparency. It requires a phone number for registration. - Threema: Allows anonymous communication without personal identifiers and offers end-to-end encryption. It does not have a free version and has a smaller user base. - Telegram: With over 500 million users, it offers self-destructing messages and works across multiple devices, but not all communications are end-to-end encrypted by default. Messaging platforms to avoid include WhatsApp, which collects extensive metadata, Keybase, which has credibility concerns after being acquired by Zoom, and regular SMS, which lacks encryption. When selecting an encrypted messaging app, users should look for end-to-end encryption, third-party testing, open-source code, self-destructing messages, limited data collection, and compatibility with other services. Signal is frequently cited as the most secure messaging app.

Winsage

January 27, 2026

Modder Creates ISO Files for Windows 7 & Vista

Microsoft has ceased support for several older operating systems, discontinuing regular security updates, which raises concerns about user vulnerability to malware and security threats. Additionally, some users of Windows 11 have reported boot issues following the January update, and Microsoft is working to resolve this problem.

AppWizard

January 27, 2026

Here’s an early look at how app lock and other Android 17 changes are coming together

Recent screenshots have revealed upcoming features of Android 17, including a translucent volume bar designed to enhance visual aesthetics, an app locking feature for improved privacy and security, and updated screen recording tools adapted for smartphones. Users will be able to lock apps by long-pressing their icons, and the new screen recording interface aims to streamline the process for easier use.