Why Has Nepal Banned the Telegram App Over Financial Crimes?
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Synopsis
The Nepal Telecommunications Authority has taken a bold step by banning the Telegram messaging app due to its involvement in financial fraud and money laundering. This decision is the culmination of ongoing concerns from law enforcement about the app's role in illicit activities. What does this mean for users and the future of digital communication in Nepal?
Key Takeaways
- Nepal has banned Telegram due to its links to financial fraud.
- All telecom providers are mandated to block the app immediately.
- The ban follows repeated warnings from law enforcement agencies.
- Telegram has been criticized globally for its lack of user data transparency.
- The app has faced restrictions in other countries as well.
New Delhi, July 18 (NationPress) The Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA) has mandated that all telecom providers across the nation block access to the Telegram messaging platform. This directive follows numerous warnings from the Cyber Bureau of Nepal Police, which identified the app as a significant medium for financial fraud and money laundering.
The NTA confirmed this action, noting that it was instigated by grave concerns from security agencies. They stated, "With the increase in online scams via Telegram in Nepal, along with its involvement in crimes like money laundering, all telecom operators are ordered to cease access to the app immediately."
Reportedly, fraudulent activities using Telegram have seen a sharp increase, encompassing fake job offers, cryptocurrency scams, and other misleading schemes.
Key officials, including those from the Prime Minister’s Office and the Ministry of Home Affairs, convened to address the escalating problem. Following a briefing on various money laundering incidents linked to Telegram, the Prime Minister’s Office issued a formal request to the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology for urgent intervention.
A significant factor contributing to the ban was Telegram's lack of cooperation with law enforcement. The Ministry attempted to engage with Telegram’s official representative but could not establish contact with a local representative.
On Friday, the Ministry contacted the NTA to request the ban, which was promptly enacted by instructing all telecom and internet providers to block the app.
Telegram has faced criticism for its perceived insecurity and failure to provide user data to authorities. Countries such as China have previously imposed bans on the app due to comparable issues. The controversy intensified after the arrest of Pavel Durov, co-founder of Telegram, in France in August 2024, under multiple serious charges including complicity in distributing child exploitation material and drug trafficking.
Durov was prevented from leaving France and subjected to judicial oversight. His arrest ignited protests from free-speech advocates and users of Telegram. In March 2025, a judge granted Durov temporary permission to exit France, leading to his departure that same month.
Point of View
I believe that while the ban on Telegram highlights serious concerns about financial fraud and user safety, it's essential to ensure that such measures don't infringe on digital freedoms. The government must balance security with the right to communicate freely in today's digital landscape. We stand by the nation in prioritizing safety while advocating for responsible usage of technology.
NationPress
25/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Nepal ban the Telegram app?
Nepal banned the Telegram app primarily due to its associations with financial fraud and money laundering, as highlighted by the Cyber Bureau of Nepal Police.
What actions did the Nepal Telecommunications Authority take?
The NTA directed all telecom service providers in Nepal to block access to the Telegram app following serious concerns raised by security agencies.
Has Telegram faced similar issues in other countries?
Yes, several countries, including China, have banned Telegram due to security concerns and its perceived role in facilitating criminal activities.
What prompted the NTA's decisive action?
The NTA's decision was prompted by a surge in online fraud schemes using Telegram, as well as the app's lack of cooperation with law enforcement.
Who is Pavel Durov and why is he relevant to this issue?
Pavel Durov is the co-founder of Telegram, who was arrested in France on serious charges. His arrest has further fueled controversy surrounding the app.
