Philippines May Ban Telegram Over Cybercrime Fears

The government of the Philippines is studying the possibility of banning the messaging app Telegram due to concerns over illegal activities being carried out on the platform.

According to the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), authorities have observed that some illegal gambling operators are allegedly shifting their operations to Telegram. In a radio interview on DZRH's Dos Por Dos, DICT Secretary Henry Aguda said the platform is also being used to spread pornographic content, including links containing sensitive photos and videos.

Aguda stressed that online sexual exploitation and abuse of children are “non-negotiable” crimes. He made it clear that the government will not hesitate to block platforms that fail to take action against such serious violations.

The DICT has also raised concerns about financial scams taking place on Telegram. Some fraudulent schemes involve questionable product sales, often targeting elderly victims. In addition, authorities are monitoring the growing use of deepfake and digitally manipulated content on the platform.

Aguda explained that advanced image filtering technologies are being used to create altered photos and memes, including manipulated images of politicians that no longer closely resemble their real appearance.

The DICT has reportedly faced challenges in coordinating with Telegram’s management, making it difficult to enforce local laws and regulations.

Before raising concerns about Telegram, Aguda met with officials from Meta to address crimes committed through its social media platforms.

The DICT is now working closely with the Philippine National Police and the National Bureau of Investigation to dismantle illegal online gambling networks and pursue cybercrime offenders.

While no final decision has been announced, the government has confirmed that banning Telegram remains an option if the platform fails to cooperate or restrict illegal activities.