Telegram Makes Controversial Change to Privacy Policy Following CEO’s Arrest

Telegram has announced significant changes to the platform’s security and privacy policies.

The changes involve handing over users’ IP addresses and phone numbers to authorities upon valid legal requests. This is particularly true in cases involving criminal activities that violate Telegram’s Terms of Service. The move has sparked widespread concern among privacy advocates and users of the popular messaging app.

The announcement comes on the heels of Telegram founder and chief executive Pavel Durov’s recent arrest in France. His arrest raised questions about whether external pressures influenced his decision.

“If any data is shared, we will include such occurrences in a quarterly transparency report published at: https://t.me/transparency,” Telegram stated.

Telegram Faces Global Scrutiny Over Privacy and Content Regulation

Durov’s arrest has added an intriguing layer to this story, with mounting speculation on whether his detention influenced the decision to modify Telegram’s privacy policies.

Neither Durov nor Telegram representatives have officially linked his arrest, due to unspecified charges, to the policy change. However, the timing raised eyebrows among users and industry experts alike.

People have long praised the app for its end-to-end encryption features. These are what made it a popular choice among those seeking secure communication channels.

The Shib Daily reported earlier that Telegram released a firm statement regarding their CEO’s arrest, reiterating its strong commitment to complying with European Union regulations.

“Telegram abides by EU laws, including the Digital Services Act – its moderation is within industry standards and constantly improving,” it noted. The company also stated that Durov “has nothing to hide and travels frequently throughout Europe.”

Amid the ongoing turmoil, Telegram also faces another major challenge in Indonesia. Communication and Informatics Minister Budi Arie Setiadi disclosed that the Ministry had issued stern warnings to the app and the popular live-streaming app Bigo Live for its failure to control the spread of terrorist content, hate speech, and misinformation. As one of Telegram’s largest markets, Indonesia continues to voice concerns over the platform’s use by extremist groups.

As Telegram navigates this new territory, the messaging app faces an uphill battle in reassuring its user base that their privacy remains a top priority. The upcoming transparency reports will be crucial in rebuilding trust and demonstrating the company’s commitment to balancing legal obligations with user rights.

Gairika holds positions in BTC. This article is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice. The Shib Magazine and The Shib Daily are the official media and publications of the Shiba Inu cryptocurrency project. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial adviser before making any investment decisions.

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