Telegram to Share User Data with Authorities Following CEO’s Arrest and Policy Shift

Telegram, the popular encrypted messaging platform, has implemented major changes to its terms of service, marking a significant shift in its longstanding privacy policies. CEO Pavel Durov announced the updates in a post on Monday, revealing that Telegram will now share users’ IP addresses and phone numbers with judicial authorities when criminal investigations are involved.

This change comes after increasing pressure from law enforcement, which has criticized the platform for allegedly shielding users engaged in illegal activities.

The new privacy policy represents a departure from Telegram’s previous stance, which restricted sharing such information only in cases of suspected terrorism. The decision is particularly noteworthy, as Telegram has built its reputation on offering strong privacy features, making it the go-to platform for encrypted communication.

Despite this, the company has emphasized that it continues to maintain several key privacy tools, including end-to-end encryption, disappearing messages, and the ability to use the app without a SIM card. Importantly, Telegram asserts that no user messages have been disclosed to third parties, including government authorities.

These changes come on the heels of Durov’s recent legal troubles. In late August, French authorities arrested Durov, accusing his company of allowing users to exploit Telegram for various illegal activities, including drug trafficking, fraud, and the distribution of child sexual abuse material (CSAM).

After being held for 96 hours, the maximum time allowed under French law, Durov was released on bail and ordered to remain in France under judicial supervision. The Russian-born CEO, who denies all charges, was required to post a €6 million bond and must report to the police twice a week as the investigation continues.

In response to his arrest, Durov vowed to implement changes aimed at balancing privacy and security, acknowledging the complexity of achieving this balance. The recent policy update is part of his broader effort to comply with European laws, including the Digital Services Act, while addressing concerns over the misuse of the platform.

Durov also assured users that Telegram is taking additional steps to combat illegal activities, such as introducing new moderation tools powered by artificial intelligence and human reviewers. He encouraged users to report any harmful or illegal content to ensure it is swiftly addressed.

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The changes have already had an impact on Telegram-linked Toncoin, which saw a 1% decline following Bloomberg’s report on the updated privacy policy. Currently trading at $5.62, the token’s dip reflects uncertainty around how the platform’s new approach will affect its user base, particularly those involved in illicit activities.

Durov’s legal troubles have drawn mixed reactions from the tech community and political leaders, with some suggesting that his arrest was politically motivated. However, French President Emmanuel Macron dismissed these claims, stating that the arrest was part of an ongoing judicial investigation.

While the long-term effects of these policy changes on Telegram’s popularity remain to be seen, the company is moving toward greater transparency with law enforcement while attempting to retain its core user base by maintaining its strong encryption features. The updates mark a turning point for Telegram as it navigates the delicate balance between user privacy and regulatory compliance in an increasingly scrutinized digital landscape.