Australia’s online safety regulator has fined Telegram approximately A$1 million ($640,000) for delaying responses to inquiries regarding measures taken by the app to prevent the spread of child abuse and violent extremist content. The eSafety Commission initiated this action in March 2024, seeking responses from various social media platforms, including YouTube, X, Facebook, Telegram, and Reddit. The commission expressed concerns that these platforms were not doing enough to prevent extremists from exploiting features like live-streaming, algorithms, and recommendation systems for recruitment purposes. Telegram and Reddit specifically were asked to detail their efforts to combat child sexual abuse material on their services, with a response deadline set for May, which Telegram missed, submitting its response in October.

Julie Inman Grant, the eSafety Commissioner, emphasized the importance of timely transparency as a mandatory requirement in Australia, highlighting that the fine underscores the necessity for all companies to adhere to Australian law. Grant stated that Telegram’s delayed response hindered the eSafety Commission’s ability to implement online safety measures effectively. In response, Telegram asserted that it had fully addressed all of eSafety’s questions last year, with no outstanding issues. The company conveyed its intention to appeal the penalty, deeming it unfair and disproportionate, particularly concerning the response time frame. This incident occurs amidst increasing global scrutiny of the messaging platform, especially after its founder, Pavel Durov, faced investigation in France in August regarding alleged illegal activities linked to the app. Durov, who is currently out on bail, has refuted these allegations.

The Australian spy agency had reported in December that one in five priority counter-terrorism cases under investigation involved youths. Commissioner Grant stressed the need for transparency from Big Tech and the implementation of measures to prevent the misuse of their services, citing the growing risk posed by online extremist materials. She asserted that greater transparency is essential for holding the tech industry accountable and gaining insight into how these platforms are addressing, or failing to address, serious online harms affecting Australians. Grant warned that if Telegram disregards the penalty notice, eSafety would pursue a civil penalty in court.

This action by the Australian regulator reflects a broader international concern regarding the role of online platforms in facilitating harmful content and activities. The demand for transparency and accountability from tech companies is growing, as governments worldwide grapple with the challenges of regulating the digital space and protecting their citizens from online harms. The case against Telegram highlights the potential consequences of non-compliance and serves as a reminder to all online platforms of the importance of adhering to local laws and regulations.