Mon Sep 23 17:44:18 UTC 2024: ## Telegram Cracks Down on Criminal Activity: CEO Durov Agrees to Share User Data

**DUBAI, UAE** – In a major shift, Telegram CEO Pavel Durov has announced that the messaging app will now comply with legal requests for user data from governments around the world. The move comes after Durov faced arrest in France on charges of facilitating criminal activity, including child pornography, through Telegram.

Previously known for its strong stance on user privacy, Telegram has traditionally resisted government requests for information. However, Durov stated that the company is “ensuring they are consistent across the world” with its new terms of service, which now include cooperating with valid legal requests. This means Telegram will hand over IP addresses and phone numbers of users to authorities when presented with a legally binding court order.

The decision follows months of criticism from authorities who claim Telegram has become a haven for criminal organizations engaged in money laundering, sex trafficking, and the distribution of illegal content. While Telegram offers end-to-end encryption for messages, its anonymity and lack of data collection have made it attractive to criminals.

Durov, in a statement, acknowledged the “growing pains” caused by the platform’s popularity, which has attracted both legitimate and illicit users. He pledged to “significantly improve things” to combat criminal activity and vowed to provide further details on Telegram’s progress in this area.

The new policy is a significant departure for Telegram, which has built its reputation on privacy and security. It remains to be seen how users will react to this change and whether it will be sufficient to appease authorities concerned about criminal activity on the platform.

Durov, who is currently facing charges in France, is barred from leaving the country while investigations continue.

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