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US-based service - Your data may be subject to US CLOUD Act and accessed by US authorities

Telegram logo

Telegram

🇺🇸US Company

by Telegram

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.

EU Alternatives to Telegram

4 privacy-focused, GDPR-compliant alternatives

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.
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.
Element logo

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.
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.

Why switch from Telegram?

US CLOUD Act

US authorities can access your data stored by US companies, even if stored in Europe.

Privacy Concerns

US companies may collect and use your data in ways not compliant with EU standards.

EU Alternatives

EU-based services must comply with GDPR, giving you stronger privacy protections.

Other Messaging Apps you might want to replace

Ready to switch to a privacy-focused alternative?

Protect your data by moving to an EU-based service. Our migration guides make switching easy.