Australia’s online safety regulator has fined messaging platform Telegram nearly A$1 million ($640,000) for failing to respond promptly to inquiries about its efforts to prevent child abuse and violent extremist content.
The eSafety Commission had requested information from multiple platforms, including YouTube, X, Facebook, Telegram, and Reddit, regarding their measures to combat online harm. While responses were due by May 2024, Telegram submitted its reply in October, leading to a hefty fine.
eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant emphasized that timely transparency is mandatory under Australian law, and Telegram’s delay hindered the regulator’s ability to enforce online safety measures. Telegram, however, defended itself, stating it had fully addressed all inquiries last year and plans to appeal what it called an “unfair and disproportionate penalty” based solely on response timing.
This action comes amid increasing scrutiny of Telegram worldwide, particularly after its founder, Pavel Durov, was placed under formal investigation in France for alleged illegal activities on the platform. As concerns over online extremism and child exploitation grow, Australian authorities warn that tech companies must be transparent and accountable to prevent their platforms from being misused. If Telegram refuses to pay the fine, eSafety has stated it will seek a civil penalty in court.
Telegram Fined $640,000 by Australia for Delayed Response on Online Safety
