Why isn’t Telegram taking online safety seriously? Australia slaps nearly $1 million fine

Australia’s eSafety Commission has imposed a fine of nearly $1 million (approximately $640,000) on encrypted messaging platform Telegram for its delayed response in providing information on measures to curb child abuse material and extremist content.

In March 2024, the commission issued notices to major digital platforms, including Telegram, YouTube, Facebook, X, and Reddit, requiring them to detail their strategies for combating the spread of harmful online content.