Philenews

Russia Fines Telegram Over $432,000 for Failing to Remove 'Illegal' Content

Published March 16, 2026, 12:14
Russia Fines Telegram Over $432,000 for Failing to Remove 'Illegal' Content

Russia has imposed a fine of 35 million rubles ($432,366) on the messaging app Telegram for failing to remove prohibited content. Russian authorities have repeatedly accused Telegram of hosting “illegal and extremist content” and of being used as a platform for such activities. Telegram denies the allegations, arguing that Russia is trying to restrict its services to force citizens to switch to the state-backed MAX app. This move is part of a broader effort by Russia to increase its control over the internet and limit access to independent sources of information. Telegram remains a popular app in Russia, despite the government's attempts to block it in the past. The app is widely used by activists, journalists, and citizens for communication and information exchange.