Legal Challenges and Regulatory Pressure

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Phone numbers: The primary identifier for a Telegram account.
This disclosure is contingent on a "valid order from the relevant judicial authorities" and a legal analysis by Telegram confirming the user is a suspect in specific criminal activities that violate the Terms of Service.

Telegram has faced numerous legal battles globally over its privacy stance, primarily from governments demanding access to user data or calling for stricter content moderation.

Blocking and Fines: Countries like Russia, Iran, and Brazil have, at various times, attempted to block Telegram or impose fines for its refusal to provide backdoor access or user data.
Content Moderation Demands: Beyond data access, authorities increasingly pressure Telegram telegram data to moderate illegal content (e.g., child sexual abuse material, drug trafficking, terrorism propaganda) on public channels and groups. While Telegram has invested in AI-powered moderation and user reporting mechanisms for public content, the scale of the platform presents ongoing challenges.
Digital Services Act (DSA) in EU: European regulations like the GDPR and the Digital Services Act (DSA) impose strict requirements on platforms regarding data protection, content moderation, and transparency. While Telegram was initially below the threshold for "Very Large Online Platforms" under the DSA, its growth means it faces increasing scrutiny and demands for compliance within the EU framework.
Pavel Durov's Arrest: The arrest of Pavel Durov in France on charges related to the alleged facilitation of illegal activities on Telegram underscored the escalating global pressure on end-to-end encrypted platforms. This event directly preceded Telegram's significant policy shift.
Implications for User Data
The change in Telegram's policy carries significant implications for users:

Reduced Anonymity: While message content (especially in Secret Chats) remains protected, the disclosure of IP addresses and phone numbers reduces the anonymity that some users previously associated with Telegram. This is particularly relevant for individuals involved in illicit activities, as it makes them more traceable.