Anon Numbers to the Rescue

In a move that even Batman would applaud, Telegram has launched a new feature allowing users to create accounts using blockchain-based anonymous numbers, completely sidestepping those pesky cell phone numbers. With this upgrade, users can revel in the freedom of knowing their digits are shielded from prying eyes—except for, you know, the eyes of the blockchain.

Decoding the Privacy Push

While Telegram has previously been a privacy enthusiast’s haven—hiding your phone number from non-contacts—it’s taken things a step further. The 9.2 update, rolled out on December 6, lets users block their numbers from everyone. Talk about a win for the privacy warriors out there! Now, even your long-lost cousin won’t be able to stalk you through the app.

Purchasing Private Numbers: A New Way

To dive into the world of anonymity, users must buy these oh-so-exclusive blockchain-powered anonymous numbers from Fragment, a decentralized auction site kicked off by Telegram’s mastermind, Pavel Durov. Yes, you heard it right—if you thought the stock market was volatile, wait until you see the bidding wars over random phone numbers. For a mere 9 TON (around $16), you can snag your very own number for Telegram. If you’re feeling especially fancy, you might even secure a real gem at auction. Ever wanted a number like “+888 8 888”? It’s currently fetching bids around 33,075 TON—or a jaw-dropping $60,527!

For the Privacy-Conscious in the U.S. – Tough Luck!

Hold your horses! If you happen to reside in the U.S., you’re out of luck, my friend. Apparently, Fragment has decided that American users are better off without these privacy-enhancing tools. So, if you were thinking of joining the revolution of anonymity, better think twice or at least pack your bags for a vacation.

What Comes Next? The Future of Telegram

In response to the recent FTX fallout, Durov indicated in a recent Telegram post that Telegram isn’t stopping at just numbers. Oh no! The company is looking to launch a plethora of decentralized tools like non-custodial wallets, decentralized exchanges, and more, aiming to bring users back to the core tenets of cryptocurrency: decentralization. As he aptly noted, “Cryptocurrency users should switch to trustless transactions and self-hosted wallets that don’t rely on any single third party.” It sounds like Telegram is gunning to be the superhero in the crypto universe, swooping in to save users from centralized chaos!