In a significant move to curb the spread of extremist ideologies, Telegram, the popular encrypted messaging app, has begun removing chat channels associated with far-right groups, particularly those operating in Scotland. This action is part of a broader effort to enhance moderation on the platform, which boasts over 700 million users globally.
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<figcaption class="articlemedia-caption”><span class="articlemedia-span”>Encrypted chat app Telegram has started to purge right-wing groups from its platform
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<figcaption class="articlemedia-caption”><span class="articlemedia-span”>The Active Club network is among those targeted for removal
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<figcaption class="articlemedia-caption”><span class="articlemedia-span”>Telegram founder Pavel Durov, 39, is being investigated by French police amid claims criminal gangs are using the platform
These groups have utilized Telegram to disseminate their harmful ideologies and recruit young individuals through enticing offers such as martial arts classes, camping trips, and video game tournaments. A source familiar with the situation remarked, “It’s a big blow for these hate groups. They rely on the app to link up and share propaganda and information on meet-ups.”
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Experts, including Professor Matthew Feldman from York University, have identified Telegram as the preferred platform for transnational far-right extremists. Among the groups affected by the recent crackdown is the Active Club network, which previously organized fighting contests with like-minded individuals from other countries.
In a statement, Telegram confirmed, “Over the last month, a number of UK-based channels that spread calls to violence were removed as part of our standard moderation efforts.” This initiative comes amidst ongoing scrutiny of the platform, particularly concerning its potential use by criminal organizations.
Pavel Durov, the 39-year-old founder of Telegram, has recently found himself under investigation by French authorities. He was detained outside Paris following allegations that the platform has been exploited by criminal gangs and those distributing child abuse images. If convicted, Durov could face a minimum of ten years in prison.
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After four days of questioning, Durov was released but remains under judicial supervision, required to pay a substantial deposit of £4.2 million. He now faces multiple charges, including complicity in the organized distribution of sexual images of children and enabling illicit transactions through the platform.
Despite these challenges, Telegram maintains that it complies with EU laws and asserts that its moderation practices are continuously evolving to meet industry standards. The platform has been a critical tool for various right-wing groups, including Active Club and Patriotic Alternative, who have used it to coordinate activities and disseminate information to their followers.
