Telegram to Disclose Users' Phone Numbers and IP Addresses to Authorities
Telegram has recently updated its privacy policy to allow the disclosure of users' phone numbers and IP addresses to law enforcement agencies, but only in cases where users have violated the platform's rules.
This significant shift was announced by the platform's founder, Pavel Durov. The update is seen as part of Telegram's effort to balance user privacy with the need to prevent illegal activities, without compromising the safety of its nearly one billion users.
Previously, Telegram was known for its strict privacy policies and strong resistance to government requests for user data, especially in regions where freedom of speech is at risk. However, as the platform has grown, it needs more stringent oversight of activities occurring within its space. The policy change is specifically targeted at users involved in criminal behavior, such as the distribution of illegal products, and does not affect the vast majority of users who follow the platform's guidelines.
In response to concerns about illegal content, Telegram has significantly boosted its moderation efforts in recent months. According to Durov, the platform now uses artificial intelligence (AI) to detect and remove "problematic content" that violates Telegram's rules. This includes posts promoting illegal goods or services. Durov assured users that the platform's search function is primarily designed to help users find friends and news, rather than providing access to illegal or harmful content. To further support the removal of unsafe content, Telegram has introduced the @SearchReport bot, allowing users to report any content they deem inappropriate or unsafe. From now on the app will allow the disclosure of users' phone numbers and IP addresses to law enforcement agencies
"These measures should deter criminals. Telegram search is designed to find friends and news, not to promote illegal goods. We will not allow attackers to compromise the integrity of our platform for almost a billion users," said Durov in a statement.
This shift comes as Telegram faces increasing pressure from governments and regulatory bodies, particularly in Europe, to take a more active role in curbing illegal activities conducted through its platform. In the past, Durov had been resistant to complying with government demands for user data, especially in countries where privacy violations could lead to human rights abuses. However, as the platform's user base has grown, it has also attracted bad actors seeking to exploit its privacy features for illegal purposes.
Pavel Durov's personal experience with government censorship and pressure also informs Telegram's privacy policies. After being forced to leave Russia due to his refusal to comply with government demands regarding his previous venture, VKontakte, Durov has remained a vocal advocate for free speech and privacy rights. His move to Europe, particularly to France, has placed him in a unique position where he must navigate both the demands of democratic governments and the need to protect Telegram's global user base.