Australia’s eSafety Commissioner initiated legal proceedings against Telegram, according to a July 30, 2026 announcement, alleging the messaging platform failed to remove graphic videos of terrorist executions and mass shootings. According to the regulator’s office, the platform did not comply with local codes and standards regarding extremist content, exposing the company to civil penalties of up to A$54.6 million ($38 million).
Regulatory Pressure and Allegations Against Telegram
The legal action focuses on digital material linked to historical acts of mass violence, including the Christchurch and Buffalo terror attacks, according to eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant. In a formal statement, Inman Grant stated that the platform left the content accessible long after receiving official notice. Court filings show that Australian users reported 12 posts containing pro-terror content between July and October 2025. Out of those reports, three involved confirmed terrorist material. According to the regulator’s filing, the platform failed to remove 10 of the posts or suspend the accounts responsible for sharing them.
Telegram Defense and Global Legal Scrutiny
Telegram rejected the allegations and confirmed it will contest the case in court. A company spokesperson stated that the platform’s anti-terrorism efforts are well-documented, noting that thousands of extremist communities were blocked in 2026 alone. Founded by Russian-born Pavel Durov—who left Russia in 2014 and relocated the company to Dubai in 2017—the messaging application serves over 1 billion monthly active users worldwide. The platform functions as a primary source for updates on Russia’s war in Ukraine and is utilized extensively by officials in both Moscow and Kyiv. Separate from the Australian proceedings, Russian authorities charged Durov on Wednesday with facilitating terrorist activity, alleging that the app was used by Ukrainian operatives to organize attacks inside Russia.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Australia taking legal action against Telegram?
According to the eSafety Commissioner, Telegram failed to remove videos of terrorist executions and mass shootings after being put on notice, violating Australian codes and standards.
What are the potential financial penalties for Telegram?
Failure to comply with Australia’s safety codes could result in civil penalties of up to A$54.6 million ($38 million), according to the regulator’s statement.
How has Telegram responded to the allegations?
A Telegram spokesperson stated that the company rejects the allegations, will contest them in court, and maintains active anti-terrorism measures that blocked thousands of extremist communities.
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