Telegram fined AUD 1M, know what’s the matter

Telegram fined AUD 1M, know what is the matter

Australia’s online safety regulator on Monday fined messaging platform Telegram nearly 1 million Australian dollars. This fine was imposed because Telegram delayed clarifying what steps it was taking to prevent the exploitation of children and the spread of violent extremist content.

Answers sought from social media platforms

Australia’s eSafety Commission sought responses from YouTube, X, Facebook, Telegram and Reddit in March 2024. The commission accused these companies of not taking sufficient steps to prevent extremists from recruiting users through live-streaming features, algorithms and recommendation systems.

Telegram and Reddit were specifically asked to explain what steps they are taking to prevent child sexual abuse content. They were to respond by May 2024, but Telegram submitted its response in October.

Strong stance on transparency

Australia’s eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant said, “Timely transparency is not an optional option in Australia. This action reinforces that all companies must comply with Australian laws.” According to Grant, Telegram’s delay hindered the implementation of online safety measures.

Telegram clarified

In its defence, Telegram said it had answered all of eSafety’s questions last year and had no pending issues. “This unfair and disproportionate penalty relates only to the delay in responding, and we will appeal it,” the company said. Australia’s intelligence agency reported in December that one in five of its primary terrorism-related investigations involved minors.

Telegram is also under close scrutiny globally, especially since its founder Pavel Durov was formally investigated in France in August 2024 for allegedly using the app for illegal activities. Durov is currently on bail and has denied the charges.

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