Telegram evolved into ‘new dark web’, govt. tells Delhi HC, Pg1

Key Highlights:

• The Union government informed the Delhi High Court that messaging platform Telegram has become a "new dark web" due to its architecture and privacy features.
• The platform is allegedly being used by cybercriminals, fraud networks, extremist groups, and for examination paper leaks.
• The government's submission relied on an assessment by the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C).
• Access to Telegram was temporarily restricted until June 22 under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000, ahead of the NEET re-examination.

Detailed Insights:

• The government asserts that Telegram's privacy settings, which allow users to conceal identifiers like phone numbers and Telegram IDs, hinder investigations into illicit activities.
• The platform's features, such as anonymous account creation and automated bots, make it attractive for sharing leaked data, conducting financial scams, and distributing extremist content.
• The government has previously requested Telegram to proactively monitor and curb illegal and suspicious channels on its platform.
• The temporary ban was implemented in the context of the NEET re-examination, which was conducted for 1,563 candidates who received grace marks due to time loss, amid broader allegations of paper leaks and irregularities.
• Telegram is currently challenging this temporary ban in the Delhi High Court.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000: Empowers the Central Government to direct blocking of public access to any information through computer resources in the interest of India's sovereignty, security, public order, or to prevent incitement to cognizable offenses.
• Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C): A national nodal agency established under the Ministry of Home Affairs to combat cybercrime in a coordinated and comprehensive manner, involving law enforcement, academia, industry, and citizens.