Over the past few years, Telegram has established itself as an “anti-data theft” messenger and thus as a secure alternative to WhatsApp. But it has also become a marketplace for criminals – for example with hacked data, drugs or weapons.
The simple registration and the possibility of anonymous communication make Telegram attractive to criminals. Illegal goods and services that previously had to be purchased via trading platforms in the so-called darknet are now available to everyone via Telegram.
Identity theft via Telegram
For example, a channel called “Dock Services” offers stolen identities that fraudsters can use to open bank accounts or carry out other criminal activities. The identity data of Finnish citizens is available in the group for just eight euros.
In addition to personal data, Telegram also offers bank accounts that were opened with stolen identities. A paradise for money launderers.
A channel called “Bank Store Online” lists accounts at over 60 banks and cryptocurrency exchanges, selling for $80 to $1,800. Payments are mostly made in cryptocurrencies.
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Drug trafficking via messenger
Drug trafficking is also flourishing on Telegram. Dealers offer all kinds of drugs in easily found groups. After the “order” is placed, the drug is delivered by drug taxi. This type of drug trafficking is now widespread, especially in major cities.
Unlike the messenger WhatsApp, the groups on Telegram are encrypted. Ergo, they are more difficult for the police to identify.
All this was reason enough for the French judiciary to Arrest Telegram founder Pavel DurovThe accusation: aiding and abetting crimes such as child pornography and drug trafficking. The platform is also said to have refused to pass on information about criminal users to the authorities. After four days in police custody, the billionaire bought his release on bail of five million euros.
