Telegram Shuts Down Gift Tracking Bots: Who, When, and Why
On April 14, 2025, Telegram began blocking bots that collect user data. Several popular services were affected, including @getSendGiftsBot, which specialized in tracking collectible gifts. This bot allowed users to see who gave gifts in Telegram, when they were given, and to assess the value and ownership history of these gifts.
The bot’s creator stated that the block was likely due to its ability to track the movement of gifts—including “regular,” “rare,” and “collectible” items—information that Telegram may have considered sensitive. The creator doubts the block was related to the NFT component; instead, it was probably triggered by the collection and display of data about transfers between users. In the project’s Telegram channel, the creators confirmed that the bot was deemed “malicious.” They have already launched a new bot, @GetSendGiftsProBot, with the same features.
Automated Blocking and User Data Concerns
Meanwhile, a representative from the analytics service Giftstat.com told “Durov’s Code” that Telegram has likely started using automated blocking algorithms targeting bots that collect user data in chats. According to him, these actions may be related to compliance with section 1.4 of the user agreement, which regulates self-destructing content.
Giftstat.com noted that collecting and analyzing gift data is of interest to users, but widespread distribution of such information could potentially violate user rights. They believe Telegram could have issued a warning and given time to fix the violations, rather than deleting a project “into which resources and funds were invested.”
Other Bots and Services Also Affected
Not only was @getSendGiftsBot affected. The Telegram channel @adurovleaks reported that almost all “mirror” services of Funstat—a well-known tool for searching messages and analyzing user activity in Telegram groups—were also blocked. Funstat’s databases included messages from users even in the least popular public groups.
Funstat has regularly faced blocks and has frequently launched new “mirrors.” After the latest wave of removals, a new bot was launched. However, the editors of “Durov’s Code” strongly recommend not using such services to avoid losing access to your account.
Unexpected Block of the @music Bot
Unexpectedly, the @music bot, which is unrelated to data collection, was also blocked. This service was created to search for classical music within Telegram. According to reports, the bot was temporarily blocked for a possible copyright violation but was later restored. Sources claim this was a mistake.