UK REGULATOR INVESTIGATES TELEGRAM OVER CHILD ABUSE MATERIAL

INDUSTRY DESK■ 1 MIN READ

WED, APR 22, 2026

■ AI-SUMMARIZED FROM 1 SOURCE ▸ TIMELINE

Ofcom has launched a formal investigation into Telegram after receiving evidence that the messaging platform is failing to prevent the sharing of child sexual abuse material (CSAM). The probe follows the Online Safety Act requirements for UK communications regulators.

The investigation was triggered after Ofcom received evidence from the Canadian Centre for Child Protection suggesting illegal content was being shared on the platform. Ofcom completed an assessment and determined sufficient grounds existed to proceed with a formal inquiry. Under the Online Safety Act, platforms must take reasonable steps to prevent the sharing of CSAM and protect child safety. The investigation will examine whether Telegram is meeting these obligations. Telegram has faced increasing scrutiny from global regulators over content moderation practices. The platform's founder Pavel Durov was arrested in France in August 2024 on allegations related to insufficient moderation of illegal content. Ofcom's investigation represents a significant regulatory challenge for Telegram in the UK market, where tech platforms face strict compliance requirements under recent online safety legislation.

■ SOURCES

► The Guardian — Technology

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UK REGULATOR INVESTIGATES TELEGRAM OVER CHILD ABUSE MATERIAL

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