Data released by encrypted messaging app Telegram has highlighted a significant increase in the amount of data it is sharing with law enforcement agencies. Alongside the best VPNs, Telegram is popular amongst people looking to protect their data privacy, so these revelations could make users rethink.

Telegram has shared data of thousands of its users with the US government after it recently tweaked its privacy policy post-Pavel Durov's arrest in France.

After its CEO was arrested last summer, Telegram has been increasingly sharing user data at the request of authorities.

Telegram founder's arrest appears to have had one significant impact: worrying those using the platform for child exploitation.

Telegram has fulfilled 900 requests from U.S. authorities for user information in 2024, with an increase following the arrest of its CEO.

The social media platform changed its policies in September and began responding to law enforcement requests at significantly higher rates than it had previously.