Xiaomi’s built-in antivirus has started blocking the Telegram messenger on some devices, labeling the app as suspicious. This development was reported by the Bleeping Computer portal.
Users attempting to install Telegram on certain Xiaomi smartphones encounter a security-check warning, with the message suggesting that Telegram is fraudulent.
According to the report, the blockage occurs specifically on the Chinese MIUI firmware used on devices sold in China. There is speculation that the restriction could reflect attempts by Chinese authorities to curb access to foreign messaging services.
Uncertainty remains about how this security feature will impact Xiaomi owners outside of China, particularly those running the Chinese version of MIUI or Xiaomi.EU builds based on Chinese code. The prevailing expectation is that global MIUI releases will not block Telegram or other apps that are not banned in other markets.
Telegram’s developers and Xiaomi have not issued any official statements about the situation, leaving users to monitor for updates as the issue develops.
Previously noted characteristics of Xiaomi’s budget flagship line are being considered in assessments of how software and security updates interact with messaging apps on these devices.