Overcomes censorship

Recently, I shared a series of recommendations for configuring and securing Telegram against unauthorized access. However, it is now imperative to address how to avoid censorship and regional blocking of this messaging application. The fact that we need to mention this issue indicates an alarming turn in the situation, as it implies that individual freedoms are being threatened and compromised in some way. Although I never thought I would need to create a tutorial like this, it is necessary to do so today.

To provide context, up to this date Telegram had only been blocked in countries like China, North Korea, Pakistan, and Iran. However, unfortunately, within hours it could also be blocked in Spain, following the issuance of a precautionary order by a judge of the National Court, alleging that Telegram infringes copyright. This news, I confess, has left me with a bitter taste, a surprise I did not expect neither in Venezuela, much less in Spain. Honestly, it worries me; this sets a precedent that undermines freedom of expression._Fuente

Nevertheless, setting aside political considerations, we will focus on technology and how we can use it to preserve spaces of freedom. It is known that attempts to silence Telegram have been made in other countries previously, successfully in only four cases so far, although it could be five within hours. Perhaps for this reason, Telegram has already implemented mechanisms to try to remain operational.

Proxy Server

Firstly, the recommendation is to download Telegram directly from its website instead of from the app stores, as they are the first to be susceptible to restrictions. Well, from the website it is possible to download the app's apk, something that benefits Android users especially (Android 1 - iOS 0). Secondly, and this is applicable to all users, it is recommended to activate a proxy server that serves as a bridge to establish a connection. Basically, the proxy masks the IP address, similar to a VPN but without encrypting the information.

As I was saying, Telegram had already thought about this, so we just need to go to the settings to activate this option:

• In the web version: Settings - Advanced - Connection type - Use custom proxy.
  
• In Android: Settings - Data and storage - Proxy settings - Use proxy.
  
• In iOS: Settings - Data and storage - Proxy - Use proxy.
  
  Regardless of the version of Telegram you use, it will then be necessary to "Add a proxy", for which we will have to enter information such as server, port, credentials, etc. For the average user, this may seem complicated, so, for the purposes of this publication, we will opt for the fastest and simplest route for any user, without complications and within reach of a click.
  

The solution in a Telegram channel

The practical and simple solution is found in the Proxy MTProto channel, where we will have access to a list of many servers and just need to click "Connect". That's all, with that we will be connected to Telegram from another region. However, it is important to note that this carries its risks, so before clicking "Connect", take a look at the list.

You may say, "A VPN is better." Okay, it is true that there are marked differences in terms of security, privacy, speed, and even price between using a VPN and a proxy. However, in this specific case, the focus is on bypassing geographical restrictions, so a proxy is more than enough.

Long live freedom!