Telegram CEO Pavel Durov has revealed that the platform has been sharing user data, including IP addresses and phone numbers, with law enforcement since 2018.
This admission has raised concerns among crypto security experts about potential threats to user privacy and the principles of decentralization that are crucial to the crypto community. Despite the backlash, the price of Toncoin has remained stable, with no significant market reaction observed.
Durov, who recently faced arrest related to alleged criminal activities on Telegram, defended the company’s compliance with legal requests while asserting that its core values of freedom and privacy remain unchanged.
However, critics like Deddy Lavid, CEO of Cyvers, argue that linking IP addresses to blockchain activities could jeopardize user anonymity, which is vital for many in the Web3 space who use Telegram for sharing sensitive information.
Lavid suggested that this policy might push Web3 projects to seek decentralized communication alternatives that prioritize data privacy. Although Durov maintains that Telegram’s stance has not shifted, the growing scrutiny may require the company to address transparency issues more openly.
Currently, Toncoin’s price stability indicates that investors are cautious and awaiting further developments. However, the unease among privacy advocates could influence future market dynamics.
The Web3 community values transparency and anonymity, and Telegram’s ongoing cooperation with authorities may affect its reputation and support within this key user segment.
Future actions by Telegram will be closely observed, as any policy changes could significantly impact its standing in the crypto and Web3 ecosystems.
