Indonesia, one of the largest users of Telegram globally, is considering banning the messaging platform due to insufficient moderation of illegal content.
Lack of Content Moderation
Indonesia’s Minister of Communication and Informatics, Budi Arie Setiadi, claimed that authorities are considering blocking Telegram. According to the minister, Indonesia is concerned about the distribution of illicit content on Telegram, including alleged involvement in promoting online gambling and spreading pornography. They are also considering a potential ban on Bigo Live, a global live-streaming app owned by Singapore-based Bigo Technology, due to similar allegations.
Telegram in Indonesia
If Indonesia were to ban Telegram, the messaging platform would lose a substantial portion of its user base. According to Demandsage data, Indonesia is the third-biggest country in the world in terms of Telegram usage, with more than 27 million app downloads coming from the country.
Telegram Context and Its Founder
The news comes amid Telegram founder and CEO Pavel Durov being placed under judicial supervision in France following a court appearance linked to his alleged criminal offenses related to his role at Telegram.
Indonesia is firmly committed to combating the spread of illegal content, and the Telegram messenger is at risk of being blocked. The impact of such a step would be significant given the platform's popularity in the country.
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