KUALA LUMPUR – Australian internet watchdog eSafety has fined Telegram A$957,780 (RM2.9 million) for failing to meet a reporting deadline on measures against terrorist and child abuse material.
eSafety had requested Telegram, along with other social media platforms, to disclose the steps they were taking to tackle terrorist and violent extremist content. Additionally, the platform was asked about its measures to combat child sexual abuse material, German news agency dpa reported.
While other platforms complied with the deadline of May 6, 2024, Telegram only responded nearly six months later, on October 31, 2024. As a result, eSafety deemed the platform non-compliant and issued the substantial fine.
eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant emphasised that transparency in reporting was not optional under Australian regulations.
“If we want accountability from the tech industry, we need much greater transparency. These powers give us a look under the hood at just how these platforms are dealing, or not dealing, with a range of serious and egregious online harms which affect Australians,” she said.
She further warned about the dangers of online terrorist and extremist material, noting its potential to normalise, desensitise, and radicalise – especially among young viewers exposed to harmful content they cannot unsee.
Telegram now has 28 days to either pay the fine, request its withdrawal, or seek an extension to make the payment. – February 24, 2025