Russia tightens grip on Telegram as Durov feud deepens
Russia escalates regulatory pressure on Telegram as tensions with founder Pavel Durov deepen, signaling a broader clampdown on the messaging platform.
Tag
Telegram
All articles tagged with #telegram
Hong Kong Man Finds His Sex Tape Circulated in Illegal Spy-Cam Chats
A Hong Kong man identified as Eric says he and his girlfriend were secretly filmed having sex in a Shenzhen hotel, and the clip appeared in illicit spy-cam chats marketed as porn. BBC reports note thousands of similar videos circulated on sites and Telegram, which is often used for distributing such content despite China’s bans; a trader linked to the material profited from it. Telegram says it forbids non-consensual porn and moderates content. The couple are traumatized, and the story underscores ongoing privacy violations and the global illicit spy-cam market amid China’s crackdown on obscene material online.
AI Nudification on Telegram Sparks Global Wave of Online Abuse
A Guardian analysis shows millions on Telegram have created and shared AI-generated nude images, with at least 150 channels worldwide offering nudification services or nude feeds, making graphic content easily accessible and scalable. Telegram says such material violates its rules and has removed more than 952,000 pieces of offending material in 2025; meanwhile nudification apps with AI tech have hundreds of millions of downloads on Google Play and Apple App Store. The report links AI-enabled abuse to a broader rise in online violence against women, highlights regulatory gaps in many countries, and describes real-world harms for victims including reputational damage, job loss, and ostracism.
Telegram's $500M Bond Freeze and Revenue Surge to $870M in H1 2025
Telegram has been affected by a Russian government move to freeze $500 million in bonds, highlighting ongoing financial sanctions and tensions between Russia and international markets.
Google Takes Legal Action Against Major Text Message Phishing Scams
Google has filed a lawsuit to dismantle the Lighthouse criminal enterprise responsible for widespread phishing scams targeting Americans through Telegram channels, aiming to stop the spread of scam texts like E-Z Pass and USPS notifications, and to hold the perpetrators accountable for wire fraud and other charges.
Telegram for Android Introduces 'Liquid Glass' Beta Feature
Telegram for Android's beta version 12.2.0 introduces a new 'Liquid Glass' UI feature in the text input and panel areas, which has received negative feedback from users. The change is optional and not yet in the stable release, with uncertain future adoption. Similar designs have been added to iOS earlier this month.
Online Group Responsible for Campus Swatting and Shooter Hoaxes
An online group called Purgatory claimed responsibility for recent swatting incidents at U.S. college campuses, including Villanova, by making false emergency calls to draw law enforcement to these locations. The group used Telegram to publicize their actions, but their claims remain unverified, and authorities suspect their involvement in multiple hoaxes.
Russia Tightens Restrictions on Messaging App Calls
Russia is restricting secure communications by blocking end-to-end encrypted calls on WhatsApp and Telegram, citing security concerns, amidst broader efforts to control internet use. The article also covers various security incidents and measures, including accidental disclosures by ICE agents, alleged Russian hacking of a Norwegian dam, and increased facial recognition deployment in the UK.
Russia tightens internet control by restricting WhatsApp and Telegram calls
Russia is restricting calls on WhatsApp and Telegram, citing concerns over their use for sabotage and terrorism, as part of a broader effort to tighten control over internet use and demand data sharing from foreign tech companies.
Russia restricts WhatsApp and Telegram calls amid internet control crackdown
Russia is partially blocking voice calls on WhatsApp and Telegram as part of a broader effort to tighten internet control, citing concerns over crime and security, while also promoting a new government-monitored messaging app, MAX. Despite previous bans and restrictions, these measures aim to limit encrypted communications and enforce compliance with Russian laws.
Russia to ban WhatsApp and Telegram calls over law violations
Russia has begun restricting voice calls on Telegram and WhatsApp, accusing the platforms of non-compliance with Russian laws related to law enforcement data sharing, as part of Moscow's broader effort to reduce dependence on foreign technology and increase control over its internet infrastructure.
Wagner-Linked Operatives Convicted of Arson Attacks on Ukraine-Linked UK Targets
A UK trial revealed how Russia-linked operatives, using Telegram and a gig economy approach, recruited individuals like Dylan Earl to carry out terrorist attacks in Europe, including arson in London, as part of a broader shadow war against the West. The operations are characterized by low-cost, deniable attacks aimed at destabilizing Ukraine's allies and spreading chaos in Europe.
Telegram founder Pavel Durov to leave $14 billion estate to over 100 children
Pavel Durov, founder of Telegram, plans to leave his estate equally to over 100 children he fathered through relationships and sperm donation, with a 30-year delay before inheritance to encourage independence. Despite an estimated net worth of $13.9 billion, he emphasizes his wealth is not liquid and is tied to investments like Bitcoin. Durov aims to protect his company and uphold his values amid his work's risks.
Telegram Founder to Leave $14 Billion to Over 100 Children
Telegram founder Pavel Durov plans to leave his multibillion-dollar fortune to over 100 children he has fathered through natural means and sperm donations, with a will that delays access until they are 30 years old to encourage independence. Durov, worth around $13.9 billion, emphasizes his desire for his children to live normal lives and not depend on wealth, amid his ongoing legal and political challenges.
Telegram Founder to Leave $132 Million to Each of His 100+ Children
Telegram founder Pavel Durov plans to leave his nearly $14 billion fortune equally to over 100 of his children, including six he recognizes officially and more born through sperm donations, each potentially inheriting around $132 million, with a 30-year waiting period before access to the inheritance.