MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) is considering restricting or blocking access to Telegram in the Philippines following mounting reports that the encrypted messaging service has been used to circulate child exploitation materials and orchestrate online financial scams targeting unsuspecting users.
DICT Secretary Henry Aguda said regulators are evaluating sanctions, including a possible nationwide ban, if the company fails to curb violations linked to online s*x*al abuse, illegal gambling, and organized fraud networks.
He stressed that public safety must take precedence over convenience, adding that digital platforms operating locally are expected to cooperate with authorities and enforce safeguards that protect Filipino users.
Launched in 2013, Telegram markets itself as a cloud-based messaging service that emphasizes privacy through encryption, large broadcast channels, and virtually unlimited file sharing.
While these features have attracted millions seeking faster and more secure communication, investigators say the same tools allow offenders to hide identities and evade detection.
The app has steadily gained ground as an alternative to mainstream platforms such as Viber, Messenger, and WhatsApp, especially among users wary of traditional social media services.
Aguda said the DICT is consulting with major technology companies to strengthen defenses against online p*rn*graphy, deepfakes, and social engineering schemes that have proliferated across digital platforms.
Authorities are also coordinating with the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to pursue syndicates exploiting messaging applications for illicit profit.
Officials noted that online scams have surged nationwide, often manipulating victims into surrendering personal information and account access through deception and impersonation tactics.
For the DICT, the looming question is whether Telegram can police itself or risk becoming the next platform cut off in the government’s widening crackdown on cybercrime.
— The Summit Express