Russia Intensifies Restrictions on Telegram, Imposes Large Fines

TLDR

• Russia has imposed an 11 million ruble fine on Telegram for failing to remove extremist content.
• Pavel Durov, Telegram’s founder, has reiterated that the app stands for privacy and freedom of speech.
• Russian authorities have warned of additional fines that could total up to 64 million rubles in upcoming hearings.
• Telegram has been accused of not complying with laws requiring data storage within Russia and measures to prevent criminal activity.
• Users in Russia reported slower traffic and difficulty downloading Telegram as the government intensifies restrictions.

Russia has taken further steps to restrict access to Telegram, one of the world’s most popular messaging apps. Russian authorities have cited the app’s failure to comply with local laws as the reason for the new measures. Pavel Durov, Telegram’s founder, has voiced resistance against these moves, emphasizing the app’s commitment to freedom and privacy.

Telegram Faces Increased Fines from Russian Authorities

On Wednesday, a Russian court imposed a fine of 11 million rubles (approximately $142,400) on Telegram. This penalty is linked to the platform’s failure to remove content deemed “extremist” by Russian authorities. Despite the fine, Telegram remains defiant, with Durov stating that the app is dedicated to privacy and freedom of speech.

Russian communications watchdog Roskomnadzor warned that Telegram could face additional fines in the coming weeks. According to state news agency RIA Novosti, these penalties could total up to 64 million rubles ($827,000) in future hearings. In addition, Russian authorities are seeking to recover 9 million rubles in unpaid penalties from the app.

Durov has criticized the actions of the Russian government, arguing that they aim to push users toward a state-backed platform built for surveillance. He added that restricting citizens’ freedom was never the right solution. Telegram’s commitment to privacy and freedom of speech, he argued, remains unshaken.

Russia Tightens Its Control Over Telegram

The Russian government has ramped up its efforts to control Telegram, claiming that the app’s non-compliance with local laws is a serious concern. According to Roskomnadzor, Telegram has failed to store Russian users’ data within the country, a requirement under Russian law. The government also argues that the app has not done enough to prevent its use for criminal activities.

In response, Durov emphasized that Telegram’s policies are rooted in protecting user privacy. He further stated that Telegram is not involved in facilitating crime or terrorism, contrary to claims made by Russian officials. Telegram has conflicted with the Russian government for years, but this latest round of restrictions marks an escalation.

While Telegram continues to operate in Russia, its services have faced disruptions. Many users reported slower traffic and difficulty downloading the app throughout Tuesday. Despite the setbacks, Durov’s stance on privacy and freedom of speech remains firm.

The Russian government has previously attempted to block Telegram but ultimately lifted the ban in 2020 after failing to enforce it. Durov’s defiant comments suggest that Telegram will continue to stand against pressure from the Russian state, even as further restrictions loom.

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