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Telegram, a social networking software, may soon be banned in India due to its involvement in a significant data leak. The largest health insurer in India, Star Health and Allied Insurance, suffered a security breach when chatbots on the app exposed user information. One of the most well-known social networking services has come under further attention as a result of this data leak, especially in light of its CEO Pavel Durov's current legal battle in France.
Telegram May Face Prohibition In India Due To Increased Illicit Activity Use
A recent Reuters story claims that Star Health, a business with a market valuation of more than $4 billion, has been the target of a cyberattack. Consumer information has been compromised and is currently accessible to the general public using Telegram chatbots (TG). Millions of people's data were put up for sale, and the chatbots even provided samples. Nationwide alarm was raised by this data, which contained names, phone numbers, addresses, tax information, copies of ID cards, test results, and medical diagnoses.
The health insurance, however, said that it informed the local authorities of the unauthorized data breach. The data leak's TG chatbots assert that they are from "xenZen." The bot said, "If this one is taken down, be careful—a new one will be available in a few hours." This intensifies worries about Telegram's unparalleled effectiveness and usage in illicit activities, calling on authorities to implement stringent measures.
Remarkably, this is not the first instance of a data leak raising legal questions for the app in India. According to widespread allegations, the Indian government opened an inquiry last month investigating TG's involvement in gambling and extortion. Depending on what the investigation's conclusions show, the Indian government might potentially decide to outlaw the app. The Star Health data hack has given this story even more fuel.
Could Pavel Durov's Arrest Serve As A Trigger For The App's Demise?
In the meantime, Telegram has been under intense judicial investigation since its CEO, Pavel Durov, was detained in France. The arrest was related to the social networking app's broader usage for illegal purposes. Durov was nevertheless freed, however he is still being watched over by the court.
But it was the arrest that set off a chain reaction for the app all around the world. Many countries, such as France, India, and South Korea, are keeping a closer hold on TG due to its usage in illicit operations, which puts them at risk of being banned in many places.
However, it is noteworthy that TG revised its procedures subsequent to Durov's apprehension, highlighting endeavors to conform to international standards. The policy amendment, which addressed illegal content, was in line with the company's recent legal troubles. Users on the platform are still awaiting more court decisions, and the future of the service is still unknown.