Ukraine Prohibits Government and Military Personnel from Using Telegram

Ukraine has restricted the use of the Telegram messaging app for government officials, military personnel, and other defense and critical infrastructure workers due to national security concerns.

The ban, announced by the National Coordination Centre for Cybersecurity (NCCC) via Facebook, addresses Telegram’s use by adversaries to conduct cyber attacks, spread phishing messages and malware, track user locations, and gather intelligence to aid Russian military operations.

Kyrylo Budanov, head of Ukraine’s GUR military intelligence agency, emphasized that the decision is not about freedom of speech but national security.

The ban applies to official devices used by state employees, military personnel, and critical infrastructure operators. However, it does not extend to personal devices or those using the app for official duties.

Telegram responded, stating it has not shared any personal data with any country, including Russia, and that deleted messages are permanently erased and unrecoverable.

This development follows the recent arrest and subsequent release on bail of Telegram’s CEO in France, linked to an investigation into the app’s use for child pornography, drug trafficking, and fraud.