Telegram Will Provide User Data to Authorities in Legal Cases
Telegram has announced that it will begin sharing users’ IP addresses and phone numbers with authorities when presented with search warrants or other valid legal requests. The change to its privacy policy is aimed at discouraging criminal activities on the platform, according to Telegram CEO Pavel Durov, who shared the update in a post on Monday.
Shift in Privacy Stance Amid Legal Pressure
This policy change marks a significant departure for Durov, the Russian-born co-founder of Telegram, who has long advocated for privacy and data protection. The decision comes after Durov was detained by French authorities last month and later charged with enabling criminal activity on the platform, including the spread of child abuse images and drug trafficking.
Durov Denies Charges, Criticizes Authorities
Durov, who has denied all charges, expressed frustration with the legal proceedings, stating that holding him responsible for third-party crimes on Telegram was both “surprising” and “misguided.” Despite his stance, the platform’s new approach to cooperating with law enforcement reflects growing legal pressure on tech companies to combat illegal activities online.
A Major Policy Shift for Telegram
The new terms of service represent a major shift for Telegram, which has built a reputation on privacy and encryption. The platform’s decision to cooperate with legal authorities is likely to raise concerns among privacy advocates, even as it aims to curb criminal misuse of its services.
Also learn about French Authorities Extend Detention of Telegram Founder Pavel Durov.
