Telegram Now Shares User Data with Authorities
Telegram, the popular messaging app, has announced a major change in its privacy policy. Now, if authorities present a valid search warrant, Telegram will provide users’ IP addresses and phone numbers. This new policy is aimed at deterring criminals, according to CEO Pavel Durov.
In a recent post, Durov explained, “While 99.999% of our users have nothing to worry about, we must take action against the 0.001% who engage in illegal activities. Their actions harm the reputation of our platform and put the privacy of millions at risk.”
Why Is Telegram Making This Change?
This shift marks a surprising turn for Durov, who has long been a defender of privacy and free speech. The decision comes after Durov’s recent arrest in France, where he was accused of enabling criminal activity on the platform, including the spread of child abuse content and drug trafficking. Though Durov denies the allegations, the platform is now under heavy scrutiny.
Telegram Under Fire
Critics argue that Telegram’s lack of moderation has turned it into a hub for misinformation, terrorism, and illegal content. Unlike other apps, Telegram allows groups of up to 200,000 members, making it harder to control what’s shared. While WhatsApp, owned by Meta, limits groups to 1,000 people, Telegram’s larger group sizes have made it more appealing to extremist groups.
Privacy Concerns Raised
Telegram’s promise of privacy has attracted users from countries with repressive regimes, such as Russia, Belarus, and parts of the Middle East. However, this new policy has alarmed many. John Scott-Railton, a senior researcher at Citizen Lab, said, “Many users are now asking if Telegram will start cooperating with authoritarian governments.”
What’s Next for Telegram?
Though Telegram says it will only cooperate with valid legal requests, concerns remain about how far this policy could go. Cybersecurity experts warn that this change may not be enough to meet European legal standards, and more drastic action may be required.
Final Thoughts
This move by Telegram is a significant shift in its stance on privacy. As the platform continues to grow, balancing user safety and privacy will be an ongoing challenge. Only time will tell how this decision will affect the platform’s future and its users around the world.
