Australia begins legal action against Telegram over alleged pro-terror material, extremist violence

Australia's eSafety Commissioner has initiated legal proceedings against Telegram, alleging the messaging platform failed to remove pro-terror content, including videos of terrorist executions and mass shootings. The legal action, announced Thursday, concerns material linked to extremist violence, such as content associated with the Christchurch and Buffalo terror attacks, which allegedly remained accessible despite Telegram being notified. Commissioner Julie Inman Grant stated, "We allege that this content remained accessible on the service long after Telegram had been put on notice." Failure to comply with Australian regulations could lead to civil penalties up to A$54.6 million ($38 million). Telegram denies the allegations, with a spokesperson stating, "We reject these allegations and will contest them in court," and asserting that their anti-terrorism efforts are well-documented, including blocking thousands of extremist communities in 2026.