Australia’s eSafety Commission has fined encrypted messaging platform Telegram nearly $1 million (approximately $640,000) for failing to promptly provide details on its efforts to combat child abuse material and extremist content online.
Why Was Telegram Fined?
In March 2024, Australia’s eSafety Commission issued formal notices to major tech companies, including Telegram, YouTube, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Reddit. The notice required these platforms to disclose their strategies for curbing harmful content online. Companies had until May 2024 to comply, but Telegram delayed its response until October, significantly hampering the commission’s ability to assess its compliance with Australian online safety regulations.
eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant criticized Telegram’s inaction, stating, “Timely transparency is not a voluntary requirement in Australia, and this action reinforces the importance of all companies complying with Australian law.” She added that Telegram’s 160-day delay prevented the regulator from enforcing the Online Safety Act for nearly six months.
Telegram’s Response: ‘Unfair and Disproportionate’
Telegram has strongly opposed the fine, calling it “unfair and disproportionate.” The company maintains that it had already submitted all required responses in 2023. Under Australian law, Telegram now has 28 days to either challenge the fine, pay it, or seek an extension. If it refuses to comply, the commission could escalate legal action, potentially pursuing civil penalties in federal court.
Growing Concerns Over Extremist Content on Telegram
This penalty highlights increasing concerns over Telegram’s role in the spread of extremist content. The Five Eyes intelligence alliance, which includes security agencies from Australia, the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and New Zealand, has previously identified Telegram as a platform used by extremist groups to distribute propaganda.
In Australia, intelligence services report that one in five priority counter-terrorism cases now involves youth. Authorities warn that digital platforms play a significant role in online radicalization, prompting stricter oversight and regulations.
Telegram’s Legal Troubles Beyond Australia
Australia is not the only country scrutinizing Telegram’s handling of harmful content. In August 2023, Telegram’s CEO, Pavel Durov, was arrested in France and charged with failing to prevent the spread of extremist material on the platform. He remains on bail and is prohibited from leaving France until his case is resolved.
Telegram’s Efforts to Improve Transparency
In response to growing pressure from regulators worldwide, Telegram has started publishing transparency reports detailing its cooperation with law enforcement. According to its latest report, in 2024, Telegram responded to 14 law enforcement requests from Australian authorities, affecting 23 users.
The eSafety Commission is expected to release a comprehensive report in early March, detailing responses from Telegram, Meta, WhatsApp, Google, and Reddit regarding their online safety measures.
What’s Next for Telegram?
With rising scrutiny from governments worldwide, Telegram faces increasing pressure to enhance its moderation policies. If the company fails to comply with Australian regulations, it may face further legal action, setting a precedent for stricter enforcement against tech giants in the future.
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