Telegram Faces Ban In India After Hacker Uses Chatbots to Leak Insurer’s Data

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As an analyst with extensive experience in cybersecurity and digital policy, I find myself deeply concerned about the current situation of Telegram in India. The recent data leak involving Star Health is not only alarming due to the sensitive nature of the information exposed but also because it reflects a troubling pattern of illegal activities associated with the app.

Telegram, a popular social media platform, could be prohibited in India due to a significant data breach. In this incident, sensitive customer information from Star Health and Allied Insurance, India’s largest health insurer, was exposed on the app through chatbots. This data leak has intensified the focus on Telegram following legal disputes involving its CEO, Pavel Durov, in France.

Telegram Risks Ban In India After Rising Use In Illicit Activities

Based on a recent Reuters article, it’s been reported that Star Health, a corporation valued at over $4 billion, has suffered from a cyber attack. Stolen data from their customers is now accessible to the public through chatbots on Telegram. Huge amounts of data, potentially belonging to millions, have been put up for sale. The chatbots are even offering samples of this data. This compromised information includes personal details such as names, phone numbers, addresses, tax records, ID card copies, test results, and medical diagnoses. This widespread exposure has sparked significant worry across the nation.

In the meantime, the health insurance company admitted they notified local law enforcement about an unlawful data breach. The bots implicated in the leak are reportedly from ‘xenZen.’ One bot warned, “If this bot is shut down, another one will pop up within a few hours.” This incident underscores Telegram’s widespread and convenient use in criminal activities, prompting officials to take swift action.

Significantly, a data breach at TG isn’t the first incident causing legal concerns over the app in India. Across the country, media outlets have highlighted that the Indian government initiated an investigation into suspected use of TG for extortion and gambling just last month. There is a possibility that the government could ban the app based on the results of this ongoing probe. The recent Star Health data leak further fuels these concerns.

Pavel Durov’s Arrest Becomes Catalyst For App’s Downfall?

Currently, Telegram’s CEO, Pavel Durov, is facing intense legal examination following his recent arrest in France. This event also coincides with the app’s involvement in illegal activities. However, Durov has been freed from custody, but he continues to be under judicial surveillance at this time.

Nevertheless, the arrest led to a chain reaction for the app on a global scale. Countries such as India, France, and South Korea have been intensifying their control over the app due to its involvement in illegal activities, potentially leading to bans in various areas.

However, it’s worth mentioning that Telegram (TG) made changes to its policies following Durov’s arrest, demonstrating a commitment to adhere to global standards. This policy adjustment focused on prohibited content, reflecting the company’s recent legal challenges. Users are still waiting for more legal decisions as the app’s future is clouded with uncertainty.

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2024-09-20 11:35