Telegram's New Moderation Strategy: Cleaning Up to Protect the Brand

Telegram CEO Pavel Durov announced a new moderation strategy to curb illegal activities on the messaging platform. While 99.999% of users are law-abiding, the small fraction abusing the service tarnishes its reputation. Recently, Durov faced a formal investigation in France over various criminal activities on Telegram.

Telegram CEO Pavel Durov stated on Friday that the messaging platform will adopt a new approach to moderating content and eliminate features exploited for illegal activities.

Durov emphasized that although 99.999% of users engage in lawful communication, the 0.001% involved in illicit activities damage the platform's image and endanger its nearly one billion users. He noted that this year, Telegram aims to transform its moderation practices from a point of criticism to one of commendation.

Last week, Durov came under formal investigation in France, with allegations including the use of Telegram for fraud, money laundering, child pornography, and other crimes.

(With inputs from agencies.)