Telegram, the popular messaging app, has disclosed that it fulfilled 900 requests for user information from U.S. authorities in 2024, a significant increase following the arrest of its CEO, Pavel Durov, in France.
While Telegram has acknowledged sharing user data with authorities since 2018, the recent surge in requests highlights the increasing pressure the company faces from regulators worldwide.
Durov's Arrest and Regulatory Challenges
Durov's arrest in August 2024 stemmed from allegations that Telegram had been used to facilitate criminal activity. This event intensified regulatory scrutiny, leading to increased data requests and legal challenges.
To address these concerns, Telegram has taken several steps, including:
New Features and Emerging Threats
Despite the regulatory challenges, Telegram continues to innovate. The platform recently introduced NFT-enabled collectible gifts, allowing users to upgrade digital gifts into unique, tradable NFTs.
However, the growing popularity of Telegram has also attracted scammers. New schemes have emerged, exploiting Telegram bots to target cryptocurrency users. Scammers are using fake verification bots to inject malware and gain access to victims' crypto wallets.
Conclusion
Telegram's increased data disclosures underscore the evolving regulatory landscape for messaging platforms. As the company navigates these challenges, it must balance user privacy with the need to prevent the misuse of its platform for illegal activities.
January 2025, Cryptoniteuae