Telegram has a new user policy. According to a recent update to its frequently asked questions (FAQ) section, users can now flag illegal content in private chats for review by moderators.

Users can now report content in private chats for review, a departure from their previous policy of not moderating private chats.

A New Policy

Previously, the FAQ stated: "All Telegram chats and group chats are private between their participants. We do not process any requests related to them."

The change could alter Telegram's reputation, which is associated with facilitating illegal activities. The update follows CEO Pavel Durov's acknowledgment that the platform's rapid growth had made it more susceptible to misuse by criminals.

Legal Troubles

The policy revision came shortly after Pavel Durov, the founder of Telegram, was arrested in France in late August. The arrest was reportedly part of a broad investigation into the messaging platform, which French authorities allege has been a conduit for illegal activities.

Durov was released after four days in custody. He is under judicial supervision and faces preliminary charges, which, if convicted, could potentially lead to significant legal consequences.

CEO's First Comments

In his first public comments on Thursday, Telegram CEO Evan Spiegel admitted that the platform's rapid growth had made it susceptible to misuse by criminals.

He refuted claims that the platform is an "anarchic paradise" for illegal activities and said Telegram actively removes harmful content. "We are committed to making Telegram a safer place for all users," Durov stated.

Impact on Telegram's Image

The change in policy marks a significant shift for Telegram, which has long prided itself on offering its users a high degree of privacy and security. This new measure might challenge the platform's reputation but aims to improve its compliance with legal standards and user safety.

Community Reaction

The community's reaction to this update remains to be seen. Some users may welcome the increased safety measures, while others could view it as a compromise on the platform's commitment to privacy. Telegram's future could hinge on how effectively it balances these two concerns.