Telegram Blocks 15.4 Million Illicit Groups

Telegram has reported the removal of over 15.4 million groups and channels associated with harmful content in 2024, a significant step in their ongoing efforts to combat illegal activities on the platform. This crackdown follows the arrest of founder Pavel Durov in France, who faces charges related to the harmful content shared on the app. Telegram emphasized that these moderation efforts have been bolstered by advanced artificial intelligence tools, contributing to a marked increase in enforcement actions. The platform has specifically blocked nearly 130,000 terrorist-related entities and over 700,000 channels promoting child sexual abuse material (CSAM), reflecting its zero-tolerance policy towards such content. Additionally, Telegram has launched a new moderation page to enhance transparency regarding its content moderation practices. Durov, currently out on bail, has acknowledged the increased pressure on Telegram to improve its content oversight.