Telegram Faces Fines and Possible Ban in Russia

Hello everyone! By now, you’ve probably seen the news in almost every channel about Telegram being fined 800,000 rubles for refusing to provide decryption keys. All the media outlets are reporting different things about the situation, but the most interesting coverage comes from Meduza (the image is also theirs). So, we’re quoting them:

On October 16, a Russian court fined the messaging service Telegram for refusing to hand over user chat encryption keys to the FSB. The court’s decision will now be sent to Telegram’s London address, and in 10 days it will take effect unless appealed. After that, Roskomnadzor will give Telegram additional time to comply with the FSB’s demands. If the service still refuses to cooperate with the authorities, it could face a ban in Russia no earlier than November 27.

Pavel Durov has already stated that he will appeal the decision, which means the case will go to a higher court. We’ll have to wait and hope for the best.

Why Does the FSB Want the Decryption Keys?

Honestly, it seems pretty pointless: why does the FSB need the decryption keys? Channels with adult content and terrorism are already being blocked regularly. Selling illegal substances? They should start with forums. Specific individuals? Maybe. We can only guess what the outcome will be.

Don’t Trust Local Media

In any case, DO NOT TRUST our domestic media, as they often distort the facts (for example, some claim Durov promised to shut down Telegram in Russia, which he never did).