Telegram's CEO, Pavel Durov, has confirmed that the messaging app has been sharing user IP addresses and phone numbers with law enforcement since 2018. In a statement posted to his Telegram channel, Durov clarified that the platform's policy of disclosing data related to criminal activity has been in place for years, despite concerns that recent updates to its privacy terms signaled a shift in direction.
In response to speculation about a major change in how Telegram handles user data, Durov explained that these updates simply streamlined existing policies, particularly across regions like Europe, without altering the platform's core principles of user privacy and freedom.
Data Sharing Practices in Place for Years
Since 2018, Telegram has complied with legal requests for user data, disclosing IP addresses and phone numbers when authorities have submitted properly formatted legal requests. The requests are only honored if they relate to accounts involved in serious criminal activity, such as those linked to dangerous individuals or groups.
Durov emphasized that this process hasn't changed and that Telegram thoroughly verifies each request to ensure it meets the legal requirements. The practice applies in most countries where Telegram operates, with Durov highlighting the company's strict adherence to its privacy policies.
Telegram's Transparency Bot, available to the public, provides detailed data on how often the platform processes requests from authorities. For instance, in Brazil, Telegram responded to 75 legal requests in the first quarter of 2024, 63 in the second, and 65 in the third. India, the app's largest market, saw significantly higher numbers, with over 2,000 requests each quarter.
European Authorities Are Increasing Requests
Durov also provided more context for the increase in data requests from European countries in recent months. According to him, the rise in valid legal requests in the third quarter of 2024 can be attributed to European Union authorities utilizing the proper communication channels, specifically those required by the Digital Services Act (DSA). Telegram made it easier for these requests to be submitted by publicly sharing the contact information for law enforcement earlier in 2024.
A surge in cooperation with European authorities underscores how the platform has adapted to evolving legal frameworks while maintaining its stance on protecting users' privacy. Telegram's willingness to comply with legal requests, however, doesn't extend to compromising its broader mission of defending activists and ordinary citizens from authoritarian governments and corporate surveillance.
Streamlining Privacy Policies Globally
As part of Telegram's recent updates, the company has worked to unify its privacy policies across different countries. Durov clarified that these changes were introduced to reduce confusion and ensure consistency. However, he stressed that the core values of the platform remain unchanged: Telegram continues to support free expression and privacy, complying with local laws only when they don't infringe on these principles.
He reiterated that Telegram was designed to offer a safe space for people living under repressive governments and to protect users from overreach by corporations. Criminals, however, are not afforded the same protections, and the platform will not hesitate to cooperate with authorities when there is clear evidence of illegal activity.
Legal Challenges in France
Durov's clarification follows legal pressure in France, where he faces accusations of failing to adequately assist law enforcement in monitoring criminal activity on Telegram. French authorities have charged Durov with failing to provide data that could assist in wiretapping suspected criminals. Although he is required to remain in France during the investigation, Durov has denied these charges, labeling them as misguided.
Despite these legal battles, Durov remains committed to Telegram's original mission. He pointed out that recent increases in data disclosures to authorities, especially in Europe, stem from legal authorities finally utilizing proper communication methods, not from any major shift in the platform's policies.
