Telegram's New Policy: Sharing User Data with Authorities

By: Eva Baxter

Telegram, who was known for its stringent privacy policies, has announced a monumental change. The platform will now share user IP addresses and phone numbers with authorities upon legal request, as reported by Bloomberg News on September 23rd, 2023.

The announcement was made by the company's CEO Pavel Durov, marking a significant pivot for the messaging service. Telegram has faced frequent criticism from authorities for its lack of cooperation in criminal investigations. Durov also stated that the platform would implement new moderation tools, integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and human moderators, to tackle inappropriate content more effectively.

Although Telegram is updating its data-sharing policies, users still have access to its robust privacy features like end-to-end encryption, disappearing messages, and options to use the service without a SIM card. Telegram, to date, has not disclosed any user messages to third parties, including governmental authorities.

Legal Troubles for the CEO

Durov's announcement coincides with his own legal challenges. In late August, French authorities arrested him as part of an ongoing investigation that includes 12 criminal charges like drug trafficking, child exploitation, and money laundering. Following a 96-hour detention, the maximum allowed under French law, Durov was released but placed under judicial supervision. He was required to post a €6 million bail, stay in France, and report to the police twice weekly.

Durov has consistently denied these charges and maintained that Telegram complies with European laws, including the Digital Services Act. The company has asserted that it is improving its moderation practices, despite criticism for allegedly permitting criminal activities on its platform.

The arrest triggered various reactions from political and tech leaders, with some speculating that this was a politically motivated move against Durov and Telegram. However, French President Emmanuel Macron dispelled these rumors, stating that the arrest was part of an ongoing judicial process.