Australia’s online safety watchdog, eSafety, has fined Telegram $957,780 for delaying its response to a legally enforceable notice regarding terrorist, child abuse, and extremist content on its platform.
In March 2023, eSafety issued notices to Telegram, Google, WhatsApp, X, and Reddit, requiring them to report their measures against terrorist and extremist material.
Telegram and Reddit were also asked about their efforts to combat child sexual abuse content. While all other platforms responded by the May 6, 2024 deadline, Telegram only replied in October, nearly five months late.
eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant stated that Telegram’s delay hindered the agency’s ability to enforce the Online Safety Act for almost six months.
She emphasized the need for greater transparency from tech companies to ensure accountability.
The Australian Security and Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) recently raised the national terror threat level to “probable,” citing concerns about extremist content online.
Inman Grant warned that exposure to such material can desensitize and radicalize individuals, especially young people.
Telegram has 28 days to pay the fine, request a review, or seek an extension.
If it refuses to pay, eSafety may escalate the matter to the Federal Court of Australia.
The platform has also faced scrutiny after its founder, Pavel Durov, was arrested and accused of facilitating illegal activities, including child exploitation and drug trafficking. He is currently under investigation by French authorities.
