Ukraine halts Telegram usage on state-used devices over Russian espionage concerns

Ukraine has restricted the use of the Telegram messaging app on government, military, and critical infrastructure devices due to security concerns about Russian surveillance. The National Security and Defence Council (NSDC) imposed the ban following intelligence from Kyrylo Budanov, head of Ukraine’s military intelligence, revealing that Russian special services could access users’ messages, even deleted ones.

Despite its widespread use across Ukraine, officials warn that Russia exploits Telegram for cyberattacks, phishing, and tracking user locations to assist in missile strikes. The restriction is limited to official devices, meaning government employees can still use the app on personal phones. Certain officials responsible for maintaining work-related Telegram channels are exempt from the ban.

Telegram, co-founded by Russian-born Pavel Durov, has drawn scrutiny over its data privacy practices. Though Telegram insists it has never shared user data, its Russian origins and its significant role during the war have led to concerns. Durov, who left Russia in 2014, is currently under investigation in France. Despite these issues, Telegram remains the most popular social platform for news in Ukraine, with 72% of Ukrainians relying on it.