Internet19.11.2015

WhatsApp alternative Telegram blocks ISIS channels

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Instant messaging service Telegram has started cracking down on public channels that were used to spread ISIS propaganda.

This follows a New York Times report that the terrorist group used encrypted communications to plan its attacks on Paris, with further reports mentioning Telegram’s secure messaging feature.

Ars Technica reported that ISIS is known to use Telegram, with the Middle East Media Research Institute (MEMRI) saying in October that both ISIS and Al Qaeda had created channels on the service for secure communications.

Much like WhatsApp, these channels let you broadcast a message, or have a group conversation with up to 200 people at once.

Information and files shared securely to these channels included “tutorials on manufacturing weapons and launching cyberattacks, calls for targeted killing and lone-wolf attacks, and more,” said MEMRI.

The instant messaging service has responded by blocking several channels it said contained ISIS activity.

Telegram’s statement is below.

Telegram ISIS channels news post

Telegram ISIS channels news post

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