Telegram: There is a major update for Telegram user. The popular Telegram instant messaging platform has been taken down from Apple’s iOS App Store globally. This action prevents Apple users from downloading the app, which boasts over 1 billion active users. The app is now inaccessible for download or search in any region. Apple has not clarified the reason for its removal nor released an official statement on the matter. Let’s delve into the reasons behind Telegram’s removal from the Apple App Store.

1. Current users are unaffected

– Existing users continue to use the app without any disruptions.
– Users can send and receive messages seamlessly with functioning push notifications.
– The removal seems to impact only new downloads and updates.

2. This is not the first time Telegram has vanished from Apple’s store

– In 2018, Apple removed the app temporarily following concerns raised by its founder, Pavel Durov, regarding inappropriate content on the platform.

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– The app was reinstated shortly afterward following enhancements in moderation.

3. Apple’s regulations

– Apple’s guidelines for the App Store require apps with user-generated content to offer specific features to users.
– These features include content filtering tools, mechanisms to report objectionable content, options to block abusive users, and access to support contact information.
– Failure to comply with these rules can lead to removal from the App Store.

4. Apple’s actions in China

– In April 2024, Apple removed Telegram, WhatsApp, Signal, and Threads from the Chinese App Store due to national security concerns as requested by China’s internet regulator.
– Apple emphasized its adherence to local laws, even if it disagrees with them.
– However, the global removal of the Telegram app without an explanation presents a different scenario.

Last week, Russia accused Telegram founder Pavel Durov of promoting terrorist activities. Russian officials claim that Ukrainian intelligence agencies were using Telegram to train Russian youth for attacks and sabotage.
According to Russia’s security agency, the FSB, a Telegram chatbot named Daivinchik/Leo was being used to lure people. The agency says that some people, using fake identities as young women, contacted young men and encouraged them to target vital locations such as railways, power, communications, and banking. According to investigative agencies, 46 people aged between 12 and 22 have been arrested over the past year for allegedly being recruited through Telegram.