Iraq bans Telegram and cites violations of personal data

The Telegram messaging app has been banned in Iraq, according to the country’s telecommunications ministry, due to safety concerns for the country as well as to protect user data that the service allegedly managed improperly.

Iraqis often use the app for texting, news consumption, and content sharing.

A significant quantity of personal information, including Iraqis’ names, residences, and familial relationships, may be found on certain channels.

The corporation ignored all demands from the ministry to stop “platforms that leak the data of the official state institutions and the personal data of citizens,” according to a statement from the ministry.

The statement said, “Without jeopardizing the security of the state and its institutions, the Ministry of Communications emphasizes its support for people’ rights to freedom of speech and communication.

An email requesting comment from Telegram did not get a response right away.