Telegram, the controversial messaging app with a global user base of approximately 950 million, has taken a dramatic turn by joining the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF), an organization renowned for combating child sexual abuse material (CSAM). For years, Telegram had ignored calls to sign up for such initiatives, but after facing mounting pressure, including the recent arrest of its founder, Pavel Durov, in Paris for alleged negligence in moderating extreme content, the platform has finally committed to addressing these serious issues.
The IWF has welcomed Telegram's decision, describing it as “transformational,” while cautioning that this signifies the beginning of a longer journey for the messaging service. "By joining the IWF, Telegram can start implementing our advanced tools to ensure that abusive material does not spread on their platform," said Derek Ray-Hill, Interim CEO at the IWF.
Telegram has long positioned itself as a champion of user privacy, often contrasting itself with other major social media services. However, investigations have revealed how criminals exploited the app for various illegal activities, including drug trafficking and now CSAM, leading experts to label it as "the dark web in your pocket."
Durov’s arrest in August, following accusations related to various forms of online crime, has prompted changes within the company. French authorities have barred him from leaving the country while investigations continue. Telegram asserts that the allegations against Durov are unwarranted, insisting that the actions of individual users should not reflect on the platform as a whole.
In response to these challenges, Telegram has announced several operational changes alongside its partnership with the IWF. These adjustments include a commitment to share user IP addresses and phone numbers with law enforcement upon valid requests, disabling features compromised by bots and scams, and publishing regular transparency reports detailing content takedowns—steps that mark a stark departure from its previous stance.
Mr. Durov has expressed intent to transform the public's perception of Telegram's moderation from one of criticism to one of acknowledgment. The collaboration with IWF signifies an important step in that direction.
While Telegram claims to have independently removed hundreds of thousands of pieces of abusive content monthly through its systems, becoming an IWF member will further enhance the platform's preventative measures against CSAM. Despite its marketing as a fully end-to-end encrypted messaging service similar to WhatsApp and Signal, Telegram's security practices have raised concerns, as the majority of its communication utilizes standard encryption.
With particular popularity in Russia, Ukraine, former Soviet states, and Iran, Telegram's actions may significantly impact its future engagement with law enforcement and its reputation concerning user safety and privacy. As the developments unfold, continued scrutiny will be paramount in assessing the effectiveness of this new chapter for Telegram.
