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Australia’s online safety regulator has fined messaging platform Telegram approximately A$1 million ($640,000) for failing to respond promptly to inquiries regarding its efforts to prevent the spread of child abuse and violent extremist content.
The eSafety Commission initially sought responses from major social media platforms, including YouTube, X, Facebook, Telegram, and Reddit, in March 2024. The inquiry focused on how these platforms were addressing the misuse of their services by extremists and child exploiters. While Telegram and Reddit were specifically asked about measures to combat child sexual abuse material, Telegram failed to submit its response within the required timeframe, only responding in October instead of May.
eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant stressed that transparency is a legal requirement in Australia, not a voluntary obligation. She stated that Telegram’s delay obstructed the regulator’s ability to enforce online safety measures effectively.
Telegram, however, defended itself, stating that it had fully responded to all inquiries last year and that there were no outstanding issues. The company deemed the penalty unfair and disproportionate, attributing it solely to the delay in response time. Telegram has announced its intention to appeal the fine.
The messaging platform has faced increasing global scrutiny. In August, its founder, Pavel Durov, was placed under formal investigation in France for allegedly enabling illegal activities through the platform. Durov, currently out on bail, has denied any wrongdoing.
Grant emphasised the need for greater transparency from tech companies, particularly in tackling online extremism. She warned that if Telegram refuses to comply with the penalty notice, eSafety would pursue a civil penalty in court.
Australia’s spy agency has previously highlighted the growing risk posed by online extremist content, revealing that one in five priority counter-terrorism cases involves young people. Grant reiterated that tech giants must take responsibility and implement measures to prevent their platforms from being exploited for harmful activities.
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