BNR – The telecom ministry in Iraq stated that it banned Telegram, an infamous messaging application. It stated that the ban comes in defence of national security.
Furthermore, the ministry said that Telegram abused personal information, prompting it to act and preserve and protect user data integrity.
Extensive Use in Iraq
People in Iraq use the messaging application extensively, not only for messages. They use the platform as a source of information and news, as well as sharing content.
Some channels on the platform have a huge amount of personal information, such as names and addresses. Furthermore, several channels have data about certain family relations in the country.
Telecom Ministry Asks Telegram to Shut Down Platforms
The telecom ministry stated that it has required the application to shut down the platforms that leak such information. The information leaked contained sensitive information about official entities and personal information of Iraqi people. However, the firm did not respond, nor gave any indication of removing the content.
“The Ministry of Communications affirms its respect for citizens’ rights to freedom of expression and communication, without prejudice to the security of the state and its institutions,” the ministry stated.
Telegram did not immediately respond to an e-mail request for a remark.
