Published By: Kavya Mishra
Last Updated: August 06, 2023, 18:41 IST
The app is widely used in Iraq for messaging but also as a source of news and for sharing content. (Representational Image)
The ministry stated that it had asked the app to close down “platforms that leak the data of official state institutions and the personal data of citizens… but the company did not respond and did not interact with any of these requests”
Iraq’s Ministry of Communications has announced a ban on the popular messaging app Telegram, citing concerns over national security and the mishandling of users’ data.
Apart from being used for messaging, the app is widely utilized in Iraq as a news source and for content sharing purposes.
Certain channels on Telegram contain significant amounts of personal information, including the names, addresses, and family connections of Iraqis.
According to the ministry’s statement, they requested the app to shut down “platforms that leak the data of official state institutions and the personal data of citizens, but the company failed to respond or take any action.”
The statement from the Ministry of Communications emphasized their commitment to upholding citizens’ rights to freedom of expression and communication while safeguarding the security of the state and its institutions.
Telegram has not yet provided a response to the email inquiry sent by the ministry.
(This story has not been edited by News18 staff and is published from a syndicated news agency feed – Reuters)
Perspective from wealthnationusa:
The ban on Telegram in Iraq highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing data privacy and national security concerns. While the app is popular among Iraqi citizens for its messaging features and as a source of news, the government has raised concerns about the mishandling of personal data and the potential leakage of information from official state institutions. This move highlights the government’s efforts to ensure the protection of citizens’ privacy while also maintaining the security of the state. However, it also raises questions about the extent of government control over online platforms and the potential impact on freedom of expression and communication for Iraqi citizens. It remains to be seen how this ban will affect the digital landscape in Iraq and whether alternative messaging apps will gain popularity as a result.
