Russia’s Attempts to Block Telegram and Tips for Growing Your Own Telegram Channel

Last Updated: 19 november 2024

The Russian government, through joint efforts by the FSB and MinComSvyaz, continues to explore new methods for blocking access to Telegram. Tests on various traffic filtering technologies are currently underway on Rostelecom networks in Reutov, near Moscow. Once an effective technology is identified, it will be rolled out to all telecom operators across Russia. Companies including RDP.RU, ADM SYSTEMS, PROTEI, DDoS-Guard, Napa Labs, Vas Experts, and Concern Avtomatika have been invited to participate in testing their solutions.

Despite these measures, MinComSvyaz previously acknowledged that completely blocking Telegram may not be feasible. Major tech firms with extensive resources can often bypass comprehensive bans. According to Alexei Volin, Russia’s Deputy Minister of Digital Development, Communications, and Mass Media, Telegram has the resources needed to continue operating despite government restrictions.

In August 2018, Telegram made updates to its privacy policy, creating a pathway for limited data-sharing with authorities. Telegram stated it would disclose a user’s IP address and phone number if ordered by a court to investigate terrorism suspicions. For general users, experts reassure that there’s no immediate concern, as typical conversations are not subject to scrutiny. In reality, basic information freely shared online can often be more accessible than encrypted private messaging.

Getting Started with Your Own Telegram Channel

If you’re considering launching a Telegram channel, here are some strategies to help you attract an engaged audience.

1. First Subscribers Matter

To build an initial audience, invite contacts who are likely to be interested in your content. In Telegram, you can go to Settings > Add Users and select contacts to invite, with a limit of 200 invitations. Think carefully about who to add to encourage lasting engagement on your channel.

2. Moving Beyond Channel Catalogs

While submitting channels to catalogs was a popular promotion strategy back in 2016, it’s now less effective. With a growing user base and the emergence of statistics services, Telegram users are now more likely to discover new channels through ads within Telegram or on external platforms. Using ads, you can specifically target relevant audiences and expedite the growth of your channel.

3. Cross-Promotion: A Proven Technique

Cross-promotion has long been popular across social media and messengers. To cross-promote effectively, identify channels with similar content themes and approach them for mutual promotion. This strategy can help you reach new audiences while staying relevant to your content focus.

4. Weighing the Pros and Cons of “Mega” Catalogs

Some Telegram channels use “Mega” catalogs, where groups of channels promote each other in a single post. While this can bring in subscribers, its effectiveness may vary, and the influx of multiple unrelated channels could risk your channel’s credibility.

5. A Creative Promotion Method

A subtle approach to self-promotion is to create a top-list post featuring popular channels in your niche—and include your channel as one of them. When viewers recognize other reputable channels in the list, they may be inclined to check out yours as well, perceiving it as similarly reputable and worthwhile.

With these strategies, you can build a strong foundation for your Telegram channel, drawing in a growing and engaged audience.