Telegram is a cloud-based messenger application founded in 2013 by Pavel Durov, the creator of VK. It has apps available for mobile devices and desktop that allow for messaging, including encrypted secret chats, public channels, and integration of bots. Telegram stores user data encrypted both in transit and in the cloud, with main servers located in Germany. The app is free for personal use and offers advantages of speed, security, cross-platform access, and large group chat functionality.