Telegram Alternatives: Brosix, Signal, and Other Apps to Consider If Telegram Is Banned in India

Following Telegram CEO Pavel Durov's arrest in France, the instant messaging app is under investigation in India for alleged misuse in illegal activities such as extortion and gambling. This inquiry, which could potentially result in a ban on the app, is being conducted by the Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C) in collaboration with the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).

If Telegram is banned, here are five alternative secure messaging apps you might consider:

Signal

Signal is widely recognised as one of the most secure messaging apps available. Launched in 2014 by Moxie Marlinspike and Brian Acton, Signal provides end-to-end encryption by default for all messages and calls. As an open-source app, its code is publicly accessible for review, enhancing its credibility. Signal also features disappearing messages and encrypted voice and video calls, making it a top choice for those prioritising privacy.

WhatsApp

Owned by Meta (formerly Facebook), WhatsApp is one of the most popular messaging apps worldwide, with over 2 billion users. It offers end-to-end encryptions for all messages and calls, ensuring secure communication. WhatsApp also supports group chats, voice messaging, and the sharing of large files. However, some users may have concerns about its association with Meta, given the company's history with data privacy issues.

Brosix

Brosix is a comprehensive team communication platform built with a strong focus on security. It’s well-suited for businesses needing a secure internal messaging app. Brosix offers end-to-end encryption and features such as chat room controls, chat history archives, and customisable data security levels. Additionally, it includes tools like a virtual whiteboard and screen-sharing capabilities, making it a robust option for team collaboration.

Mattermost

Mattermost is a popular alternative to both Telegram and Microsoft Teams, particularly favoured in IT and corporate settings. It provides secure messaging with end-to-end encryption and is tailored for team collaboration. Mattermost supports cross-platform use, allowing access from various devices, and offers features such as file sharing, message search, and the creation of private chat rooms.

Microsoft Teams

Microsoft Teams is a full-featured collaboration platform that extends beyond messaging to integrate seamlessly with the entire Microsoft 365 suite. It provides end-to-end encryption, ensuring a secure environment for businesses and educational institutions. Users can hold video conferences, share files, and collaborate in real time, all within a secure and integrated platform.