Key takeaways
- Telegram has changed its policy to allow users to report illegal content in private chats.
- CEO Pavel Durov acknowledges that the platform’s rapid growth has facilitated abuse.
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Telegram has revised its policy, allowing users to report “illegal content” in private chats for review by moderators, according to a recent update to its frequently asked questions (FAQ) section.
This means that users can now flag content in private conversations for review, a departure from their previous policy of not moderating private conversations. This change could damage Telegram’s reputation, which has been associated with facilitating illegal activities.
Previously, the FAQ stated:
“All Telegram conversations and group chats are private between their participants. We do not process any requests regarding them.”
The update comes shortly after Telegram founder Pavel Durov was arrested in France in late August. The arrest was reportedly part of a broader investigation into the messaging platform, which French authorities say has been a conduit for illegal activity.
Durov was released after four days in custody. He is under judicial supervision and faces preliminary charges that could carry major legal consequences if convicted.
In his first public comments Thursday, Telegram’s CEO admitted that the platform’s rapid growth has made it vulnerable to abuse by criminals. He refuted claims that the platform is a “lawless haven” for illegal activity and said Telegram actively removes harmful content.
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