Several countries around the world are imposing restrictions or outright bans on the popular messaging app, Telegram. These measures are often driven by concerns related to national security, extremism, and the spread of disinformation.
Telegram is a popular messaging app that recently came under increasing scrutiny worldwide. The famous social media app is facing bans and restrictions from various countries due to its association with illegal activities and security concerns.
Recently, Telegram’s co-founder and CEO, Pavel Durov, was detained near Paris over allegations of organized crime and drug trafficking linked to the platform. Telegram’s authorities have denied these claims. They argued that the app and its executives are not responsible for how users misuse the service.
Several countries have already taken steps to ban or limit Telegram’s use. For instance, the United Kingdom witnessed Telegram being used to coordinate anti-immigrant riots. This controversy sparks calls for tougher action against the platform. However, authorities did not take any concrete steps to prevent this problem.
In March 2024, Spain temporarily banned Telegram after major media groups accused the app of copyright infringement. Authorities later lifted the ban in response to widespread criticism.
Norway has banned Telegram on work devices for government officials, citing concerns about national security. The country’s intelligence services pointed to the potential for foreign influence through disinformation spread on social media, including Telegram.
Germany also considered banning the app in 2022 after discovering multiple channels promoting hate speech. Although the app wasn’t banned, Telegram agreed to cooperate with the German government, removing the offending content.
Long History Of Ban
Ukraine grapples with a unique dilemma as it widely uses Telegram for communication in the ongoing conflict with Russia. However, the app’s role in spreading disinformation has led Ukraine to consider a ban unless it meets certain conditions.
In Russia, Telegram was banned briefly in 2018 but continued to thrive as a key news source. Belarus, China, and Iran have also taken steps to restrict or ban the messaging app due to its role in anti-government protests and criticism of their regimes.
India and Thailand are among the latest countries considering action against Telegram due to concerns over criminal activities and its use in anti-government protests. As this unique social media app continues to be a focal point of controversy, its future remains uncertain in many parts of the world.
