Nepal Bans Telegram, Orders Immediate Shutdown

Kathmandu: The government has banned the popular messaging app Telegram, citing its increasing use in serious crimes like online fraud and money laundering. The Nepal Telecommunication Authority (NTA) on Friday directed all telecom and internet service providers to immediately block access to Telegram.

In a statement, the NTA said, “As online frauds through Telegram continue to rise in Nepal, and the app is reportedly involved in crimes such as money laundering, all telecom service providers are directed to immediately block Telegram.”

With this directive, service providers must now block Telegram on their networks, affecting millions of users across the country. Authorities believe Telegram’s popularity, due to its large groups, broadcast channels, and strong encryption has made it attractive to criminal groups. The authority stated that fraud schemes through Telegram have recently surged. These include fake job offers, crypto scams, and other deceptive tactics.

The ban came after the National Coordination Committee on Prevention of Money Laundering and Financing of Terrorism, under the Prime Minister’s Office, wrote to the Ministry of Communications on Thursday requesting action against Telegram. Nepal Police had also reported that the app was being widely used for fraud, betting, and money laundering.

The Ministry tried to contact Telegram’s official representative but couldn’t find a local focal point. On Friday, it wrote to the NTA requesting the block. Soon after, the authority instructed all telecom and internet providers to cut off access to the app.

Related news: Government Targets Telegram Amid Push to Exit Money Laundering Grey List

 

पछिल्लो अध्यावधिक: साउन ३, २०८२ १९:२५

टिप्पणीहरू