Telegram Faces Investigation in India Amid Criminal Activity Allegations

The widely-used messaging app, Telegram, is currently under heightened scrutiny in India due to its alleged involvement in various criminal activities. Concerns have been raised regarding the platform being utilized for the distribution of leaked exam papers, child pornography, stock price manipulation, and extortion.

This increased attention follows the recent detention of Telegram’s CEO, Pavel Durov, in France. French authorities are investigating Durov for his purported failure to effectively manage and curb criminal activities on the platform, particularly those involving child sexual abuse materials.

In a statement, Telegram responded to the allegations, asserting that it is unreasonable to hold a platform or its owner accountable for the misuse of that platform. The firm maintains its commitment to compliance with laws and has appointed a nodal officer and a chief compliance officer.

The Indian government has initiated a formal investigation into Telegram’s operations, focusing specifically on how the app has been misused for illegal activities such as extortion and gambling. Depending on the outcomes of this investigation, there could be a potential ban on the app in India.

One notable case involves the cancellation of the UGC-NET examination due to a question paper leak that allegedly occurred on Telegram. This incident has sparked discussions regarding the challenges faced by law enforcement in tracking illegal activities carried out through the app’s anonymous features.

Furthermore, reports indicate that Telegram was involved in a stock price manipulation scheme discovered by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi), highlighting the platform’s connection to financial fraud.

Law enforcement officials have expressed their frustrations, noting that investment frauds and scams appear to be rampant on Telegram, complicating efforts to regulate and monitor illicit activities.