Beware: Telegram Shares Your Personal Data with Government If You Commit Crimes

Telegram, once known for its staunch defense of user privacy, has updated its policy to disclose users’ phone numbers and IP addresses to authorities when requested in legal investigations. This significant shift comes as part of Telegram’s broader compliance with government demands, especially in cases involving serious criminal activity, such as terrorism or child exploitation. Also Read: How To Share Large Files On Telegram Without Compression

According to the newly revised privacy policy, Telegram will only release this information when such crimes are involved, aiming to balance legal obligations with user privacy. Also Read: Why Telegram Is Banned In These 7 Countries

Telegram CEO Pavel Durov said, “We’ve made it clear that the IP addresses and phone numbers of those who violate our rules can be disclosed to relevant authorities in response to valid legal requests,” Durov wrote in a post on his Telegram channel. “We won’t let bad actors jeopardize the integrity of our platform for almost a billion users.”

Historically, Telegram resisted governmental efforts to access user data, positioning itself as a platform for secure, private communications. Its refusal to cooperate with authorities on multiple occasions made it a favored app for those looking for anonymity. However, with growing pressure from various governments and increasing regulatory demands, Telegram now faces a more complex landscape where privacy protections are weighed against compliance with law enforcement.

Despite assurances that the policy applies only to severe crimes, privacy advocates are concerned. They argue that the vague definition of “serious crimes” leaves the door open for potential misuse or overreach by governments. Additionally, given the varying legal standards across countries, there’s concern that some regimes may exploit the policy to target dissenters or activists under the guise of criminal activity.

Telegram continues to emphasize its privacy features, including end-to-end encryption for secret chats, but this new policy change has sparked uncertainty among its more privacy-focused users. As a result, some may look to alternative platforms that offer stricter privacy measures. Ultimately, this policy shift reflects the broader challenge tech companies face today: navigating the fine line between legal compliance and the preservation of user trust