The UK media regulator has launched an investigation into Telegram over concerns it may be failing to prevent child sexual abuse material (CSAM) being shared.
Ofcom said on Tuesday it was probing the popular messaging service after gathering evidence suggesting CSAM was present and being shared on the platform.
Under the current law, user-to-user services operating in the UK must have systems in place to prevent people from encountering CSAM and other illegal content, as well as mechanisms to tackle it - or risk huge fines for breaches.
Telegram said in a statement that it categorically denies Ofcom's accusations. Since 2018, Telegram has virtually eliminated the public spread of CSAM on its platform through world-class detection algorithms and cooperation with [non-governmental organisations], it told the BBC.
The company added: We are surprised by this investigation and concerned that it may be part of a broader attack on online platforms that defend freedom of speech and the right to privacy. Ofcom's probe into Telegram is part of a wider crackdown on services suspected of not complying with the UK's strict online safety requirements.
Ofcom director Suzanne Cater stated, Child sexual exploitation and abuse causes devastating harm to victims, and making sure sites and apps tackle this is one of our highest priorities.
The director highlighted that while there had been progress with smaller services, major platforms still face the same issues.
Children's charity, the NSPCC, welcomed Ofcom's investigation into Telegram, citing alarming statistics regarding child sexual abuse images.
The probe into Telegram comes after Ofcom was contacted by the Canadian Centre for Child Protection regarding alleged CSAM on the messaging app. Ofcom is also looking into services like Teen Chat and Chat Avenue due to potential grooming risks noted by child protection agencies.
Ofcom has the authority to impose fines of up to £18 million or 10% of a company's global revenues for non-compliance with safety regulations.
