Telegram, the popular instant messaging platform with over 900 million users worldwide, has increasingly become a haven for criminal activity according to a new investigation. Experts say certain features of the app, combined with lax moderation policies, have enabled illicit groups to spread propaganda and organize in the shadows.
The investigation analyzed over 3 million Telegram messages and found alarming levels of hate speech, drug trafficking, gun sales and terrorist content spread openly across thousands of public channels. White supremacist groups used the platform to recruit and coordinate racist protests around the world. Deadly street drugs were also openly peddled to numerous countries.
Hamas, known Palestinian militant group, relied heavily on Telegram to announce attacks and spread graphic videos during recent conflicts. The app saw viewership of such content surge over 10 times. Terrorism experts warn the platform plays a key role in radicalizing vulnerable youth and enabling terrorist attacks.
Part of the problem stems from Telegram's unique features that allow large groups and message broadcasts. Criminals have exploited these tools to anonymously push propaganda and sell illicit goods to huge audiences. However, experts say the platform's lax moderation and unwillingness to work with authorities has magnified these risks substantially.
With a small staff of just 60, Telegram has few resources devoted to policing its vast userbase. Founder Pavel Durov also maintains a strong anti-censorship stance, citing concerns over government overreach. While this has protected privacy in some nations, authorities argue it has come at the cost of public safety in democratic countries.
Recent events suggest governments and tech giants like Apple may be losing patience with this hands-off approach. Facing legal action and app store bans, Telegram now removes only the most egregious terrorist and child abuse content. However, most illegal activity remains unchecked, fueling concerns the platform is slipping beyond lawmakers' control.
As Telegram approaches 1 billion users, the investigation highlights its failings could increasingly enable real-world harm if left unaddressed. Striking the right balance between privacy and public safety will likely challenge Durov and his platform for years to come.
