Telegram rolls out concerning peer-to-peer login program in exchange for free Premium subscriptions

For many users who have looked for alternatives to using iMessage on iPhone or Meta-owned apps such as WhatsApp, Telegram has always been a privacy-conscious alternative that often spearheads new features of messaging. However, the platform has launched a new feature that is causing serious concern. Telegram recently deployed a “Peer-to-Peer Connection Program” (P2PL). Basically, this program is designed to help users in places where SMS is not very reliable to receive OTP (One-Time Pin) codes through other Telegram users. In other words, the phone numbers of program participants become a relay for sending pins via SMS to help other Telegram users connect.

As useful and innovative as this may seem, there is a catch. As described in the terms of the program, if you sign up, Telegram will access your number up to 150 times per month for these SMS messages to be sent. This makes you solely responsible for any shipping costs that may be incurred, which may not be a big deal if these are being sent to your own location, but can become costly if the recipients are international.

There is also the question of privacy. Participation in this program means that you and the recipient of the OTP message can see each other's phone numbers. This can put you at risk of receiving unwanted messages and possibly harassment from someone whose number you unknowingly helped. Telegram's terms make it clear that they are not responsible, leaving program participants vulnerable to possible privacy violations.

The reward for this program is a free Telegram Premium subscription, which normally costs $4.99 per month and unlocks extras like larger file uploads and faster downloads. While it's great that Telegram is exploring ways to make its premium tier more accessible, are the risks worth it? I'm inclined to say no, but I'm curious what you think.