Wallet in Telegram enables law enforcement evidence collection Wallet in Telegram enables law enforcement evidence collection
New policy allows Wallet app to aid law enforcement while respecting privacy laws.
1 min read
Updated: Oct. 16, 2024 at 3:37 pm UTC
Cover art/illustration via CryptoSlate. Image includes combined content which may include AI-generated content.
The Wallet app on Telegram now supports law enforcement evidence collection, according to its updated FAQ page.
This page directs law enforcement agencies to submit requests via a designated email address, stating:
“Wallet will carefully review each law enforcement request and cooperate on a case-by-case basis to disclose information, in accordance with its internal policies and applicable laws. All communications and requests must be fully verified.”
It’s important to clarify that Telegram does not directly operate the Wallet app. Instead, it is a crypto wallet developed as a mini app within Telegram’s ecosystem. Meanwhile, the FAQ update, which took place on Sept. 5, coincides with other significant platform changes.
Recently, Wallet developers restricted certain features for UK customers while applying to the country’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) for registration as a Crypto Asset provider. Despite the restrictions, British users can still withdraw assets to external wallets without incurring fees.
Telegram’s updated policy
The Wallet’s move comes amid Telegram’s own unrelated efforts to streamline its privacy policies globally. Last month, CEO Pavel Durov announced that the platform will begin providing user IP addresses and phone numbers to authorities when legally required.
Although Durov clarified that Telegram has been sharing criminals’ IP addresses with law enforcement since 2018, this update marks a significant change. In the past, Telegram was criticized for its reluctance to cooperate with authorities.
In addition to the policy changes, Telegram is introducing new moderation tools, including artificial intelligence and human moderators, to identify and remove harmful content. Durov urged users to report illegal or inappropriate material to ensure swift action.
These changes follow Durov’s legal challenges in France, where he faced allegations related to Telegram’s data practices, particularly its moderation policies and refusal to share user data with authorities.
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Oluwapelumi Adejumo
Oluwapelumi values Bitcoin's potential. He imparts insights on a range of topics like DeFi, hacks, mining and culture, underlining transformative power.
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Telegram
Telegram is a cloud-based instant messaging service that emphasizes speed, security, and user privacy.
Pavel Durov is the CEO and founder of Telegram, a messaging platform focused on privacy and security.