Iraq blocks Telegram over ‘national security concerns’

The Iraqi Ministry of Telecommunications has blocked messaging app Telegram. The government agency says it is concerned about national security and ‘the use of personal data by the app’.

Telegram is widely used in Iraq for sending messages, but also as a source of news. Some channels contain large amounts of personal data, including the names, addresses and family ties of Iraqis.

In a statement to Reuters the ministry said it had asked Telegram to close “channels that leak government agency data and citizens’ personal data.” However, the company has not responded to the requests. That’s why the app is blocked for now

“The ministry would like to emphasize its respect for the right of citizens to freedom of expression and communication, without prejudice to the security of the state and its institutions,” the government body said. Telegram has not yet responded to Reuters questions about the blockade.

It is not the first time that the use of Telegram has been restricted by governments and judges. Last year, the Brazilian Supreme Court imposed a block on the app because it did not do enough to tackle disinformation. The blockade was short-lived and was lifted a few days later after Telegram met the demands.