Telegram’s New Policy Mirrors WhatsApp and Messenger in Sharing User Data with Authorities
On September 23, Telegram CEO Pavel Durov announced a major update to the app's privacy policy, a move that has stirred a wave of concern among Telegram's vast user base. This new policy shift, effective since August 24, signifies that Telegram will begin sharing user data, such as IP addresses and phone numbers, with authorities in response to valid legal requests. This development comes amid a growing trend of messaging apps tightening their guidelines to address illegal activities on their platforms.
Durov, who recently faced legal troubles in France, emphasized that this decision aims to make Telegram a safer platform, not just for its existing users but for the platform's future growth. He noted that the changes are part of a broader strategy to prevent criminal activities within Telegram Search, an often-used feature to connect with friends and discover news. To further this objective, the app has deployed artificial intelligence algorithms alongside human moderators to swiftly identify and remove “problematic content.”
The revised policy has raised eyebrows, especially among those concerned about potential overreach and the implications for user privacy. Durov himself acknowledged the significance of this shift, stating, "These measures should discourage criminals. Telegram Search is meant for finding friends and discovering news, not for promoting illegal goods. We won't let bad actors jeopardize the integrity of our platform for almost a billion users."
Telegram isn't alone in this move, as other popular messaging apps like WhatsApp and Meta’s Messenger have already established precedents for cooperating with authorities under valid legal requests. WhatsApp, for example, explicitly mentions in its privacy policy that it may share information with law enforcement when it believes there’s an imminent risk of serious physical injury. Similarly, Meta's Messenger has complied with over 301,000 requests for user data from authorities since July 2013, granting data access in approximately 77% of these cases, according to Meta's policy page.
The ongoing trend among top messaging platforms highlights a broader industry shift toward balancing user privacy with the responsibility to prevent illegal activities. While Telegram’s policy change is likely to generate further debate, especially regarding privacy implications, it aligns with a larger narrative where messaging apps are increasingly becoming key players in law enforcement efforts to deter criminal activities online.