Initially, Telegram was created in response to the Russian government’s crackdown on pro-democracy protests in 2011 and 2012. The app’s primary selling points—encryption of communications and user anonymity—made it an attractive tool for activists worldwide. Telegram gained notoriety during the 2020 Belarus protests against a rigged presidential election, where activists used it to coordinate actions while evading government surveillance. Similarly, during Iran’s 2018 anti-government protests, Telegram was crucial for organizing and sharing uncensored information, attracting an estimated 40 million users in the country. The app’s ability to facilitate communication under oppressive regimes highlighted its potential as a tool for free expression and resistance.
However, Telegram’s lack of moderation and security features has also made it a haven for criminal activity. Its encryption and anonymity appeal to drug dealers, pedophiles, and those trading illegal goods. A 2019 BBC investigation found that criminals were using Telegram to distribute child sexual abuse material and stolen credit card information, often embedding links to illegal content within public comments on YouTube videos. Telegram’s relaxed policies have made it easier for users with malicious intent to exploit the platform.
Additionally, Telegram has become a powerful tool for disinformation, particularly in Central and Eastern Europe. A 2023 investigative report identified the app as the largest platform for disinformation in the region, with German-language channels playing a significant role in influencing extremist opinions.
Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the Kremlin and affiliated groups have increasingly used Telegram for propaganda, recruitment, and fundraising. Pro-Russian channels experienced a surge in subscribers, turning Telegram into a key communication tool for the conflict.
The app’s dual role has drawn global attention, especially as Durov’s case unfolds in France. Telegram defended its stance by arguing that holding an owner responsible for all platform activities is “absurd.”
Yet, this controversy highlights the broader challenge of balancing privacy and free speech with the need to combat illegal and harmful activities online. As authorities grapple with these issues, the future of Telegram remains uncertain, balancing its potential for good against the misuse by those with nefarious intentions.
