Telegram founder clarifies user data sharing policy: Privacy remains largely unchanged

The popular messaging app Telegram recently clarified its privacy policy and the way it shares user data with law enforcement agencies. Despite concerns about significant policy changes, Telegram's founder Pavel Durov, who is currently restricted from leaving France, emphasized that its core privacy practices remain unchanged.

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Pavel Durov: Telegram Data Disclosure Policy Implemented Since 2018

Telegram founder Pavel Durov stated that since 2018, Telegram's privacy policy allows for the disclosure of the IP addresses and phone numbers of dangerous criminals to law enforcement agencies upon receiving valid and legally compliant requests. The disclosure of this information is carried out only in compliance with local laws and in alignment with the platform's principles of freedom and privacy. The company ensures strict verification of any user data requests before sharing relevant information.

Transparency Provided Through Telegram Bots

Durov mentioned that Telegram maintains transparency on these legal data requests through the @transparency bot.

This bot provides real-time information on the number of legal requests regarding user data processing. For instance, Telegram disclosed that in Brazil, they handled 75 requests in the first quarter (Q1) of 2024, 63 requests in the second quarter (Q2), and 65 requests in the third quarter (Q3). Similarly, in their largest market, India, Telegram complied with 2461 requests in Q1, 2151 in Q2, and 2380 in Q3.

Increase in European Regulatory Requests

In the EU region, Telegram noted an increase in the number of effective legal requests in the third quarter of 2024.

This rise is attributed to EU law enforcement agencies utilizing the correct communication channels more effectively, with relevant contact methods being provided on Telegram's website since the beginning of 2024, offering law enforcement departments a convenient way to reach out.

Interestingly, despite Durov stating that the policy has been in place for some time, it appears that effective communication channels were only made available starting in 2024.

Simplifying Global Privacy Policies

Durov mentioned that to avoid confusion, Telegram recently unified privacy policies across different countries. However, the company assures users that its fundamental principles remain unchanged. Telegram's privacy policies continue to comply with relevant local laws, provided these laws do not conflict with its core values of freedom and privacy.

Durov stated that while Telegram is committed to protecting activists and the general public from oppressive governments and corporations, it also strives to prevent its platform from being abused. The company explicitly states that Telegram does not allow criminals to exploit its platform to evade legal sanctions, emphasizing its commitment to maintaining a balance between privacy and legal compliance.

After the arrest of Telegram's founder, the company quietly changed its policy announcement regarding "non-interference in illegal activities."