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GDPR Compliance Risk

Telegram is a US-based service subject to the CLOUD Act. EU organizations using this service risk non-compliance with GDPR data transfer requirements.

Telegram logo

GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Telegram

🇺🇸Telegram · US-based · Subject to CLOUD Act

Telegram is a messaging application developed in the United States, designed to facilitate communication through text, voice, and video. It offers a range of features including secret chats with self-destruct timers, cloud-based storage for messages, and the ability to share files up to 2 GB. Users can also create and join channels for broadcasting messages to an unlimited audience, and participate in group chats that support up to 200,000 members. Telegram is equipped with bots for automation and interaction, and provides customizable themes and stickers to enhance user experience. The app is targeted at individuals and groups seeking a versatile communication platform. It is important to note that Telegram stores user data in the United States, making it subject to US data laws such as the CLOUD Act and FISA 702. Telegram is free to use, with optional premium features available through a subscription model.

Why You Need a GDPR-Compliant Alternative to Telegram

Since the landmark Schrems II ruling in 2020, transferring personal data to US-based services like Telegram has become a significant legal risk for EU organizations. The US CLOUD Act gives American authorities the power to access data held by US companies, regardless of where that data is physically stored — even if it's in an EU data center.

While the EU-US Data Privacy Framework (DPF) adopted in 2023 provides a new legal basis for transfers, privacy experts and legal scholars have raised concerns about its long-term viability. The framework could face the same fate as its predecessors (Safe Harbor and Privacy Shield), both of which were struck down by the Court of Justice of the EU.

For organizations that want to eliminate compliance risk entirely, switching to a European-based messaging apps is the most straightforward solution. Below are the best GDPR-compliant alternatives to Telegram, all headquartered in Europe with data stored in EU data centers.

CLOUD Act Exposure

US authorities can access your data stored by Telegram, even if servers are located in Europe.

GDPR Fine Risk

Non-compliant data transfers can result in fines up to 4% of annual global revenue under GDPR Article 83.

EU Alternative Available

4 GDPR-compliant European alternatives available with full EU data residency.

4 GDPR-Compliant Alternatives to Telegram

European services with full GDPR compliance and EU data residency

Threema logo

Threema

🇨🇭

by Threema

The secure instant messenger from Switzerland. GDPR-compliant messaging for individuals and organizations that value security and data protection.

GDPR CompliantEU-BasedISO 27001Open SourceSelf-HostableSwiss hosted
freemiumMigration:●●●1-2 hours

Why switch?

  • Threema uses Swiss servers, ensuring strong data privacy protections.
  • No phone number required for registration, enhancing user anonymity.
  • All messages are end-to-end encrypted, ensuring maximum security.

Consider

  • Limited group size of 256 members compared to Telegram's 200,000.
  • Migration may require manual transfer of chats and contacts.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Threema
Wire logo

Wire

🇨🇭

by Wire

Collaborate without compromise with Wire, the trusted platform for millions worldwide. Stay in control with end-to-end encryption that's invisible, flexible collaboration, and intuitive user interface. Join now for free and boost your productivity.

EU-BasedGDPR CompliantOpen SourceSelf-HostableSwiss hosted
freemiumMigration:●●●1-2 hours

Why switch?

  • Wire offers end-to-end encryption for all messages, enhancing security.
  • GDPR compliance ensures strict data protection for EU users.
  • Customizable user permissions allow for better group management.

Consider

  • Migration from Telegram may require manual export and import of chats.
  • Wire lacks Telegram's extensive bot ecosystem for automation.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Wire
Element logo

Element

🌍

by Element

Element is a Matrix-based end-to-end encrypted messenger and secure collaboration app. It’s decentralised for digital sovereign self-hosting, or through a hosting service such as Element Matrix Services. Element operates on the open Matrix network to provide interoperability and easy connections.

Open SourceSelf-HostableISO 27001EU-hostedGDPR Compliant
freemiumMigration:●●●1 day

Why switch?

  • Element uses end-to-end encryption by default for all communications.
  • Self-hosting options enhance privacy and control over data storage.
  • Element complies with GDPR, ensuring strict data protection standards.

Consider

  • Element supports group chats with only 1,000 members, less than Telegram.
  • Migration may involve data loss as Telegram's cloud storage is not transferable.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit Element
N

nilly

🇪🇺

Nilly is a privacy-first messaging app designed to cater to the communication needs of individuals and businesses across Europe. Developed in Switzerland, Nilly ensures that your conversations remain secure and private, aligning with the strictest EU data protection regulations. With its robust web analytics service, users can gain insights into their communication patterns without compromising their privacy. Key features of Nilly include end-to-end encryption, ensuring that only you and your intended recipient can read your messages. The app is EU-hosted, which means your data is stored within Europe, offering enhanced data sovereignty and compliance with GDPR standards. This makes Nilly an ideal choice for privacy-conscious users, businesses, and organizations that prioritize data protection. Nilly's user-friendly interface and reliable performance make it suitable for both personal and professional use. The app is particularly beneficial for European businesses seeking a secure communication platform that respects local data privacy laws. While specific pricing details are not disclosed, Nilly offers a competitive pricing model that reflects its commitment to privacy and security. By choosing Nilly, users can communicate with confidence, knowing their data is protected by some of the world's most stringent privacy laws.

EU-hostedGDPR CompliantSwiss hosted
freemiumMigration:●●●2-3 hours

Why switch?

  • nilly is EU-hosted, ensuring compliance with EU data protection laws.
  • Privacy-first approach may offer stronger data protection than Telegram.
  • Switzerland's strict privacy laws enhance user data security.

Consider

  • Migration from Telegram may require exporting and re-importing chats.
  • nilly lacks Telegram's extensive features like bots and large groups.
View DetailsCompareSwitch Guide
Visit nilly

Quick GDPR Compliance Comparison

ServiceHQ LocationGDPR NativeEU Data CentersCLOUD Act FreePricing
🇺🇸Telegram
United StatesNoPartialNo-
🇨🇭ThreemaCHYesYesYesfreemium
🇨🇭WireCHYesYesYesfreemium
🌍ElementGBYesYesYesfreemium
🇪🇺nillyEUYesYesYesfreemium

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Telegram GDPR compliant?

Telegram is a US-based service operated by Telegram. While it may have some GDPR compliance measures, as a US company it is subject to the CLOUD Act, which allows US authorities to access data stored by US companies regardless of where the data is physically located. This creates a fundamental conflict with GDPR requirements for data protection.

What are the GDPR risks of using Telegram?

The main GDPR risks include: (1) Data transfers to the US may lack adequate protection since the Schrems II ruling invalidated Privacy Shield, (2) US authorities can demand access under the CLOUD Act, (3) Your organization may face GDPR fines up to 4% of annual revenue for non-compliant data transfers, and (4) User consent may not be sufficient to legitimize transfers given the systematic access by US authorities.

What are the best GDPR-compliant alternatives to Telegram?

The top GDPR-compliant alternatives to Telegram include Threema, Wire, Element. These European services store your data in EU data centers and are fully subject to GDPR protections.

How do I migrate from Telegram to a GDPR-compliant alternative?

Most migrations involve three steps: (1) Export your data from Telegram using their data export tools, (2) Create an account with your chosen EU alternative, and (3) Import your data into the new service. We provide detailed migration guides for each alternative to make the switch as smooth as possible.

Can EU companies legally use Telegram?

Since the Schrems II ruling (2020), EU organizations face significant legal risk when using US cloud services like Telegram. While the EU-US Data Privacy Framework (2023) provides a new legal basis, its long-term stability is uncertain. Many EU data protection authorities recommend using EU-based alternatives to avoid compliance risks entirely.

Other GDPR Alternatives in Messaging Apps

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Related Pages

Migration Resources

Last updated: January 26, 2026