In a significant shift for the messaging platform, Telegram CEO Pavel Durov announced that the app will now provide user data, including IP addresses and phone numbers, to authorities in response to valid legal requests. The decision, outlined in a post by Durov, marks a departure from Telegram’s previous stance on government cooperation and follows legal pressures from various countries.
Durov’s announcement comes on the heels of his arrest in France, where he faces charges of alleged complicity in the spread of child sexual abuse materials through his platform. As a result, Telegram has revised its terms of service to prevent criminals from abusing the app and align with legal obligations.
A Shift in Telegram’s Approach
Historically, Telegram has been known for its resistance to government requests for data. The platform, headquartered in the United Arab Emirates, is known for ignoring takedown requests and providing little to no information to authorities about suspected criminals. However, Durov’s statement on Monday signals a shift in how the company will handle legal requests moving forward.
“The platform changed its terms of service to deter criminals from abusing it,” Durov said. Telegram has already begun using artificial intelligence and a team of moderators to filter problematic content, particularly in search results, to address misuse.
Legal Troubles in France
Durov’s recent legal troubles in France have brought new scrutiny to his management of Telegram. In August, French prosecutors charged the Russian-born billionaire in connection with crimes allegedly committed on the app. The charges portray Durov as the head of a company that, in the past, refused to provide law enforcement with data needed for legal wiretaps on suspected criminals.
Durov, who denies the charges, has been ordered to remain in France while the investigation is ongoing. His arrest has raised questions about Telegram’s ability to balance its commitment to user privacy with the need to comply with legal obligations.
Telegram’s Complicated Relationship with Governments
Telegram has long been a thorn in the side of governments worldwide, including democratic and authoritarian regimes alike. The app has become a popular tool for organizing protests, with activists using it to communicate and mobilize against state authorities. At the same time, Telegram has also been criticized for being a hub for extremists, conspiracy theorists, and criminal activity.
In the United States, white supremacists have used Telegram for years to coordinate attacks, including targeting critical infrastructure. Meanwhile, the Russian government tried to block Telegram in 2018 due to its refusal to comply with government data requests, only to reverse the ban two years later. Russia’s telecommunications regulator acknowledged that Durov had agreed to help counter extremism and terrorism, a notable concession from the CEO.
As Durov navigates his legal challenges in France, Telegram’s cooperation with government authorities signals a broader policy shift. While the company remains a platform for free speech and privacy, it now faces growing pressure to prevent abuse by criminals and extremists. Durov’s decision to allow limited data sharing could begin a new chapter for the app, as it balances its commitment to user privacy with the need to comply with international legal standards.
Telegram’s decision to begin sharing user data with governments reflects the growing complexities tech companies face in today’s regulatory environment. As Durov continues to face legal scrutiny, the platform’s policies may continue to evolve, shaping the future of one of the world’s most controversial messaging apps.