Pavel Durov, the CEO of Telegram, has announced major updates to the messaging platform’s policies regarding the sharing of user information with law enforcement.
These changes come after Durov’s detention by French authorities, who accused him of failing to cooperate in investigations of illegal activities.
As a result, Telegram will now provide user details, such as phone numbers and IP addresses, if users are suspected of engaging in unlawful actions.
To implement these new measures, Telegram has updated its terms of service, introducing stricter rules aimed at preventing the search or distribution of illegal content on the platform.
If users are found repeatedly attempting to access or share illegal material, Telegram may hand over their personal information to authorities, as required by law.
Durov clarified that the platform’s search feature is designed to help users connect with friends or find news, not to facilitate illegal activity.
To further ensure user safety, Telegram will employ artificial intelligence to filter out problematic content, including drugs, scams, and child exploitation material, so that such content cannot be accessed through the platform’s search function.
For the majority of Telegram users who use the app for legal purposes, such as chatting with friends or joining groups, these policy changes are unlikely to impact their experience.
However, users engaged in illegal activities could face serious consequences, as their information could be turned over to law enforcement in response to legitimate legal requests.
This shift in policy highlights Telegram’s commitment to making the platform a safer space and reducing its potential for misuse by criminals.
