Telegram Implements New Moderation Policies After CEO’s Arrest

Telegram’s Shift in Policy Following CEO’s Arrest

In a significant turn of events, Telegram is fundamentally changing its approach to what it considers “illegal” use of its messaging platform. This comes just days after CEO Pavel Durov was taken into custody in France for allegedly failing to effectively monitor and manage law-breaking content disseminated through the app.

On Thursday evening, Telegram announced a noteworthy expansion of its moderation policies. The previously unregulated realm of private chats is now under scrutiny, as users are empowered to “flag illegal content” for review by moderators. This marks a departure from the prior policy, which treated private groups as off-limits for moderation intervention, as stated in an earlier version of their FAQ page.

This subtle yet impactful policy change could significantly alter Telegram’s perceived role as a haven for illicit activities, a characterization that French authorities have levied against the platform. Just last month, Durov faced arrest in France for allegedly allowing criminal behavior to proliferate on the app. While he has vehemently denied the accusations, claiming they lack merit, he is required to remain in France as he awaits trial.

Earlier on the same day, Durov took to Telegram to address the situation, acknowledging that the platform’s rapid growth has inadvertently made it easier for criminals to exploit its features. In his post, he pledged to implement necessary changes to enhance the platform’s integrity and safety for all users.