Australia Fines Telegram for Handling Terror and Abuse Content

Australia's e-Safety Commission imposed a A$1 million fine on Telegram for a delayed response to inquiries regarding child abuse and extremist content prevention measures. Originally due in May 2024, the responses were submitted in October. Commissioner Julie Inman Grant highlighted the necessity of transparency in the tech sector, asserting, "If we want accountability from the tech industry, we need much greater transparency." The platform came under scrutiny due to its founder, Pavel Durov, being investigated in France for alleged illegal activities associated with the app. Should Telegram fail to comply with the fine, the e-Safety Commission will pursue legal action for a civil penalty.