Telegram to Share User Info with Authorities for Criminal Suspects

Telegram, the popular messaging platform, has recently updated its privacy policy to include significant changes regarding user privacy. These changes come in light of the platform's increasing scrutiny and the recent arrest of its CEO, Pavel Durov, by French authorities for allegedly supporting illegal activities on the app.

New User Privacy Policy: What You Need to Know

According to the updated privacy policy, Telegram may disclose a user's phone number and IP address upon receiving a valid request from judicial authorities. This new rule applies if the individual is a suspect in a case involving criminal activities that are violations of Telegram's Terms of Service.

Durov emphasized in a recent post on Telegram that the goal of these changes is to deter bad actors from misusing the app. He acknowledged that the search feature on Telegram, which enables users to find public channels and bots, has been exploited by those looking to engage in the sale of illegal goods.

Previous Policies and Changes

Prior to this update, Telegram's law enforcement policy primarily centered around terror suspects. The previous language stated:

"If Telegram receives a court order that confirms you’re a terror suspect, we may disclose your IP address and phone number to the relevant authorities."

The change in policy reflects a broader approach to law enforcement, indicating Telegram’s commitment to improving its adherence to legal requests.

Transparency Reports on User Data Disclosure

To enhance transparency, Telegram has announced that it will now include information on user data disclosures in its quarterly transparency reports. This move aims to provide users with insights into how often the platform shares user information with authorities.

Content Moderation Initiatives

Telegram has been under fire for its lax moderation policies, which have garnered the attention of illegal activities on the platform, including terrorism, child exploitation materials, and drug trafficking. The New York Times recently highlighted thousands of channels being connected to these illicit activities.

As part of its strategy to combat this negative reputation, Telegram has also intensified its moderation efforts. Durov mentioned that the platform is now deploying AI technology to identify and remove problematic content more efficiently. Changes in moderation policies have included adjustments to private chat settings, the disabling of the frequently misused People Nearby feature, and a temporary pause on media uploads to Telegraph, Telegram’s anonymous blogging tool.

What Lies Ahead for Telegram?

As Telegram seeks to distance itself from its shady past, users can expect more adjustments regarding how the platform handles illegal content. It remains crucial for Telegram to balance user privacy with legal compliance to maintain its user base, which numbers close to a billion.

In conclusion, the recent updates to Telegram's privacy policies indicate a significant shift in the company's approach to user data protection and moderation. With increased scrutiny from authorities, it is likely that further changes will be implemented to enhance the platform's security and integrity.

Takeaway

With these updates, users of Telegram are encouraged to review their privacy settings and stay informed about how their data may be used or shared. As the platform evolves, it’s essential for users to remain vigilant and proactive in safeguarding their information.