Telegram has recently removed information from its FAQ page that previously stated private chats were fully protected and that the company did not handle any requests related to them.
This update follows the arrest of the platform’s CEO, Pavel Durov, in France. Authorities accused him of allowing illegal activities to take place on the app without interference.
No updates to the Telegram code
A Telegram spokesperson, Remi Vaughn, responded by clarifying that there have been no changes to the app’s source code. Vaughn explained that private chats remain secure. However, users can report new messages by using the “Block” and “Report” options.
Vaughn also noted that anyone can verify Telegram’s code, which remains open to the public, to confirm that no updates have been made.
Strict content moderation
Earlier, on Thursday, September 5th, Durov made his first public statement following his arrest. In a shift from the company’s earlier stance, whereby it was stated he had “nothing to hide,” Durov promised stricter content moderation on the platform.
Durov explained that Telegram’s rapid growth to 950 million users had created challenges, making it easier for criminals to misuse the app. He emphasized that improving this issue is now a personal priority.
According to Durov, “Telegram’s abrupt increase in user count to 950M caused growing pains that made it easier for criminals to abuse our platform.”
“That’s why I made it my personal goal to ensure we significantly improve things in this regard,” he assured the public. “We’ve already started that process internally, and I will share more details on our progress with you very soon.”
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Telegram CEO releases first statement since his arrest in France. pic.twitter.com/S3ODdRM450
— Radar🚨 (@RadarHits) September 5, 2024
Quick changes on the FAQs page
In a swift response, Telegram has already made changes to its FAQs page within the last twenty-four hours. One section, previously titled, “There’s illegal content on Telegram. How do I take it down?” has been notably altered.
As of September 5th, the company’s answer to this question states: “All Telegram chats and group chats are private amongst their participants. We do not process any requests related to them.”
However, that wording has since been removed. It now reads, “All Telegram apps have ‘Report’ buttons that let you flag illegal content for our moderators—in just a few taps,” along with instructions on how to report messages.
Telegram’s press team has not yet responded to inquiries about the removed language or how the platform manages related requests.
Pavel Durov’s arrest followed accusations from French authorities, who issued preliminary charges. They allege that Telegram was being used for the distribution of child sexual abuse material and drug trafficking.