- Telegram has started complying with government requests for user data following CEO Pavel Durov’s arrest
- Durov has stated that while the majority of users are not involved in criminal activity, data will be shared in legal investigations
- This marks a shift in Telegram’s long-standing policy on privacy and data sharing
Messaging app Telegram will provide users’ IP addresses and phone numbers to authorities in response to legal challenges, a move that has upset the crypto community. Chief Executive Officer Pavel Durov announced that the platform will change its terms of service to deter criminals from abusing it, with the move coming less than a month after his arrest in France, where he faces charges of alleged complicity in the spread of child sexual abuse materials. Many crypto supporters revealed that they would quit the platform for competitors such as Signal after the news broke, desirous of retaining their privacy.
Compliance with Legal Requests
Telegram’s decision to share user data with governments has come in response to increasing pressure, particularly following CEO Pavel Durov’s arrest in France. While maintaining that most users are unaffected, Durov acknowledged that illegal activity on the platform is forcing the company to cooperate with authorities:
To further deter criminals from abusing Telegram Search, we have updated our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy, ensuring they are consistent across the world. We’ve made it clear that the IP addresses and phone numbers of those who violate our rules can be disclosed to relevant authorities in response to valid legal requests.
Telegram had previously prided itself on user privacy, especially in the crypto space, which is known for facilitating the activities of scammers. Durov emphasized that this shift is necessary to avoid being seen as a haven for illegal activity.
Compliance with Legal Requests
Telegram’s role in the crypto industry has been significant, particularly with its involvement in blockchain initiatives like Toncoin. However, this new approach to data sharing has raised concerns within the crypto community.
Privacy advocates fear that this could undermine the appeal of platforms like Telegram, which had been seen as secure options for transactions and communication:
Wasn’t this the main reason why someone would choose Telegram over Whatsapp?
Now what?
— Emmett Burton (@emmettito_) September 23, 2024
Durov addressed these concerns, stating, “While 99.999% of users have no ties to crime, the actions of a few are endangering the entire platform.”
This development highlights the growing tension between maintaining user privacy and complying with government regulations, a challenge faced by many tech platforms operating in the crypto world.
