In a recent update, Telegram has removed a previous assurance that it would not assist law enforcement in accessing user data.
The change, first reported by The Verge on September 5, raises concerns about the platform’s commitment to user privacy.
Previously, Telegram’s FAQ section stated, “All Telegram chats and group chats are private amongst their participants. We do not process any requests related to them.”
This language has now been replaced with information on how users can report illegal content.
The updated policy highlights that all Telegram apps feature “Report” buttons for flagging inappropriate material and provide an email address, abuse@telegram.org, for automated takedown requests.
Telegram’s modification comes amid increasing scrutiny of online privacy policies. Unlike competitors such as WhatsApp and Signal, Telegram does not offer automatic end-to-end encryption for all conversations, potentially exposing user data.
Despite these changes, Telegram spokesperson Remi Vaughn clarified that the app’s source code remains unchanged.
“Private chats are also private, although you could always report a new incoming chat to moderators using Block > Report.
Anyone can check Telegram’s open-source code and verify that no changes have been made,” Vaughn stated.
Telegram CEO Pavel Durov addressed the issue publicly for the first time since his recent arrest, attributing the policy shift to the platform’s rapid growth, leading to challenges in managing misuse.
“Telegram’s abrupt increase in user count to 950 million caused growing pains that made it easier for criminals to abuse our platform,” Durov said.
He emphasized that addressing these issues is a personal goal and promised further updates on enhancing security and privacy.
