Telegram announced a significant policy change, stating it will provide users’ IP addresses and phone numbers to authorities with valid legal requests, BBC reports.
Telegram CEO Pavel Durov emphasized that while the vast majority of users are law-abiding, the small percentage involved in illicit activities tarnishes the app’s reputation. This change follows Durov’s recent detention in France, where he faced charges related to enabling criminal activities on Telegram, including allegations related to child abuse content and drug trafficking. He denied these allegations and criticized authorities for holding him accountable for third-party crimes.
Telegram plans to use AI for moderating content, but experts express skepticism about whether these measures will satisfy legal requirements for removing illegal material and cooperating with law enforcement. The new policy has raised concerns about the platform’s commitment to free speech, particularly among political dissidents in oppressive regimes, about whether Telegram will cooperate with such governments.
