EU probes Telegram’s activities, reports the Financial Times : Analysis

The European Commission is investigating allegations that Telegram provided inaccurate user numbers, potentially violating EU digital rules. The probe coincides with France’s criminal investigation into activity on the messaging platform, leading to the brief arrest of Telegram CEO Pavel Durov. The EU’s investigation aims to determine if Telegram’s user data is accurate and compliant with regulations under the Digital Services Act. Telegram claims to have 41 million users in the EU but failed to provide updated figures as required. Durov’s arrest is part of a broader probe into criminal activities on the platform, including child pornography and fraud, sparking concerns about free speech.

Analysis:
The article raises serious concerns about the accuracy of user numbers provided by Telegram and potential violations of EU digital regulations. The credibility of the sources, such as the European Commission and the ongoing criminal investigation in France, adds weight to the claims made. The fact that Telegram’s CEO, Pavel Durov, was briefly arrested also underscores the severity of the situation.

The lack of updated user figures from Telegram is a red flag and suggests a potential discrepancy in the reported numbers. This could be a significant issue in terms of transparency and compliance with EU regulations, particularly under the Digital Services Act.

The mention of criminal activities on the platform, including child pornography and fraud, further complicates the situation and raises concerns about the platform’s role in enabling illegal activities. However, it is crucial to approach these allegations with caution and verify the information through official investigations.

In the broader context of fake news and misinformation, this article highlights the importance of verifying sources and information, especially in the digital age where false narratives can easily spread. The political landscape and the prevalence of fake news can skew public perception of the situation, underscoring the need for accurate and reliable reporting to combat misinformation.

Source: RT news: EU investigating Telegram – FT