Cambodia urges Telegram Android updates over voice-call security flaw

A security vulnerability that could enable account takeovers through Telegram voice calls has prompted Cambodia’s Ministry of Interior to urge Android users to update the app immediately. Its Anti-Cyber Crime Department issued the warning in a Facebook post.

The department singled out Telegram for Android version 12.x.x as particularly vulnerable. It recommended moving to version 12.10.4 or a later version.

Digital expert Chy Sophat said a successful attack could expose photographs, audio recordings and other files held on a phone, and give attackers access to Android device permissions. Alongside updating Telegram, he recommended changing privacy settings so other people could not call the user.

Sophat called for government bodies, telecoms operators and technology companies to work together on informing the public and addressing the threat. He also urged authorities to discuss potential damage and possible responses with Telegram, but said he was uncertain how much cooperation would be possible.

YCP Digital Innovation Strategy Experts in Cambodia estimated that Telegram had four million Cambodian users in 2024. UNESCO figures show that only 32 per cent of Cambodians have basic digital literacy skills.