Telegram Faces Major Fine Over Child Safety Failures

Destiny Rescue welcomes the eSafety Commissioner’s enforcement action against Telegram for failing to comply with transparency obligations around child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and terrorism content. The platform now faces a fine of more than $500,000 after failing to adequately and promptly respond to legally mandated questions under the Online Safety Act.

This isn’t just about one app—it’s about an entire industry’s responsibility. This move sends a clear message: Australia will not tolerate tech companies that ignore their duty to protect children online.

What the Online Safety Act Requires

Telegram’s lack of cooperation is part of a broader concern among Australian regulators about tech platforms failing to explain how they detect, report, and remove harmful and illegal content. Despite repeated outreach, Telegram provided a significantly late and largely incomplete response, offering minimal insight into its safety measures.

A Broader Issue: Tech Silence on Harmful Content

Telegram was among several global platforms that issued transparency notices in 2023, requiring them to detail what steps they are taking to protect users from illegal content, particularly CSAM and violent extremism.

The fine sends a strong message: digital platforms operating in Australia must meet their legal obligations and take meaningful steps to ensure online safety.

Destiny Rescue’s Call for Global Scrutiny

In our 2025-26 Pre-Budget Submission, Destiny Rescue called for the eSafety Commissioner to investigate whether major Southeast Asian platforms comply with the Social Media Services Safety Code.

Australia’s eSafety Commissioner has emerged as a global leader in online harm prevention—setting a precedent for accountability worldwide. Australia is setting a powerful precedent for global accountability. However, to dismantle online exploitation networks, international pressure must follow.

This investigation would ensure accountability for platforms enabling CSAM distribution and strengthen international efforts to combat online exploitation.

A Turning Point for Child Protection Online

The recent enforcement against Telegram marks a continued effort by Australian authorities to hold tech companies accountable and create a safer digital environment for all users, especially children.

When platforms fail to act, children pay the price. That’s why scrutiny must not stop at Australia’s borders—it must become a global standard.