EU Probes Telegram for Underreporting 41M Users Under Digital Services Act

Aug 29, 2024, 06:36 AM

The European Commission has launched a technical investigation into Telegram over allegations of underreporting user numbers to avoid compliance with the Digital Services Act (DSA). The Financial Times reports that the probe focuses on whether Telegram inaccurately reported having 41 million users in the EU, just below the 45 million threshold that triggers additional regulatory requirements. If found in breach, Telegram could face significant penalties and increased oversight as a 'very large online platform.' The investigation adds pressure on Telegram amid broader scrutiny of digital platforms' adherence to EU regulations. Additionally, French authorities are investigating alleged criminality, while Telegram's founder, Pavel Durov, has stated he is 'hiding nothing.'