10 Key Strategies to Prevent Telegram Based Cyber Attacks

According to the statistics by Security Review, cybercriminal activity on Telegram surged by 53%. Attackers are now using Telegram to launch cyberattacks such as phishing, malware distribution and brand impersonation. These Telegram-based cyberattacks often bypass traditional security tools, making it difficult for organizations to stay protected. It’s important to understand how these threats work and take the right steps to prevent them. Organizations should provide security awareness training to their employees to tackle modern cyber threats and strengthen their overall cybersecurity posture.

Types of Telegram-Based Cyber Threats You Need to Know

Following are the various types of Telegram-based cyber threats that are used to harm organizations:

Phishing Attacks

Fraudulent messages and Telegram phishing links are used to appear as legitimate entities and are sent over Telegram with the intent of stealing confidential details, including login details, financial data and personal information.

Social Engineering

Using Telegram’s direct messaging feature, attackers manipulate employees into giving out sensitive information or conducting actions that cause harm, such as downloading malicious software or making unauthorized wire transfers.

Malware Distribution

Attackers might use Telegram channels and bots to distribute malware such as ransomware, trojans and keyloggers. Employees may click on malicious links or attachments which may lead to their devices being infected.

Insider Threats

Current or ex-employees may collaborate with intruders to use Telegram in order to spy on the organization’s cybersecurity and exfiltrate confidential data.

Data Exfiltration

Data encrypted through Telegram can be sent, thereby bypassing the traditional monitoring systems. Threat actors communicate and transfer the stolen data using Telegram without detection.

Botnet Command and Control (C&C)

Cybercriminals have used Telegram for controlling botnets. They issue commands over Telegram to bots residing in infected systems to launch attacks.

Real Incidents of Telegram-Based Cyber Attacks

Star Health Insurance Data Breach (2024)

Incident: In 2024, attackers leaked details of more than 31 million Star Health customers through a Telegram chatbot and website. Star Health is a major health insurance provider. The attackers asked for $68,000 in ransom, which led to legal action.

Impact: The breach exposed confidential details, damaged brand reputation, increased the chance of penalties and highlighted the difficulty of removing harmful content from these platforms.

Key Takeaways: Telegram is becoming a hub for cyber threats. Organizations should keep an eye on messaging apps, improve how they respond to incidents and provide security awareness training to the employees for reducing risks.

Source: Reuters

Security and Policy Changes Implemented by Telegram to Reduce Cyberattacks

Telegram has made necessary security and policy changes to reduce the cyber threats, mentioned below:

• End-to-End Encryption: Secret chats are now end-to-end encrypted so hackers can’t intercept and read your private messages.
• Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): 2FA is now available for your account to prevent unauthorized access.
• Reporting and Moderation: Users can now report suspicious activities, bots and spam to help moderators block harmful content faster.
• Bot Verification: Telegram has a verification system for bots so you can identify legitimate bots and reduce the risk of malicious or fraudulent Telegram phishing bots.
• Public Channel Restrictions: Now, Telegram has restricted certain public channels involved in illegal activities like selling stolen data.
• Spam and Malware Detection: With the help of Telegram’s newest algorithms, it can now detect and block spam, malware and Telegram phishing attempts in chats and channels.
• API Access Controls: Strict API usage policies are implemented to limit abuse and prevent malicious actors from automating cyberattacks via third-party apps.
• Regular Security Audits: Telegram conducts regular security audits and launches bug bounty programs to find and fix vulnerabilities and make the platform more secure.

10 Preventive Measures to Reduce Telegram-Based Cyberattacks

Telegram is not only the most preferred platform for confidential communication, but it is also an easy target for cybercriminals.

Following are the preventive strategies which can be implemented to protect organizations from Telegram-based cyberattacks:

1. Enhance Employee Awareness of Telegram Threats

Organizations need to raise awareness among employees about the threats used by attackers on the Telegram platform for both personal and official communication. It’s important to educate them on the potential risks of Telegram phishing scams and various tactics used by attackers to manipulate or trick people.

2. Restrict Telegram Use for Work-Related Communication

Create policies to limit or ban the use of Telegram for work purposes, ensuring that any communication regarding official affairs happens through approved and secure channels.

3. Mandate Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

There is a need to implement 2-FA to every work-related Telegram account so that only the authorized employees could gain visibility into the confidential data.

4. Monitor For Malicious Bots on Telegram

Set up systems to find and block phishing bots which exploit Telegram for scams or spreading malware.There is a need to act quickly to block or report these bots.

5. Secure Mobile Devices Accessing Telegram

Protect every mobile device by using trusted security management solutions. This includes using encryption methodology and restricting downloading from unauthorized sources.

6. Update Privacy Settings on Telegram

Guide employees on setting their Telegram privacy settings to control who can add them to groups or see their phone numbers. This reduces contact with unknown individuals.

7. Stay Informed About Latest Threats

Use necessary information sources which track malicious activities on messaging apps to stay updated on the latest threats which are associated with Telegram.

8. Train Employees on Social Engineering Scams

Regularly educate & train employees on recognizing Telegram scams like fake accounts or imposter attacks which aims to steal confidential details.

9. Use Device Protection Software

Equip all devices accessing Telegram with protection software to prevent malware and software from infecting organization’s IT devices.

10. Prepare for Telegram-Based Cyberattacks

Develop a plan for responding to Telegram-based attacks and practice it regularly. Include steps to handle and reduce threats arising from these attacks.

By following these strategies, organizations can reduce the risk of Telegram based cyberattacks and strengthen their overall security posture.

Conclusion

Cyberattacks through Telegram have become a major concern for organizations and businesses, exploiting the platform’s encryption and widespread use for phishing, social engineering, and malware distribution. To address this issue, Threatcop has introduced TSAT (Threatcop Security Awareness Training) which comes with unique features. It offers Multiple Attack Vector Simulations, Spear Phishing using Fake CC, DMI Mail Sending and Real-Time Campaign Tracking. 

TSAT integrates easily with LMS and also offers Active Directory integration, allowing effective training and identifying vulnerabilities. It uses Geolocation Tagging and records any employee hacks to offer deeper insights into potential risks. By using these modern cybersecurity solutions, organizations can educate & train their employees, reduce the chances of cyberattacks and boost their cybersecurity measures significantly.