South Korean authorities have initiated a comprehensive investigation into Telegram, the popular encrypted messaging app with a sideline in crypto, to determine its involvement in the spread of sexually explicit deepfake content. This probe is a response to increasing public and political uproar over deepfake pornography, which predominantly features South Korean women. The investigation follows the Telegram CEO’s recent arrest that sparked huge criticism from the crypto community.
The platform has already been under the spotlight of the crypto community for its digital asset holdings. According to a recent report, Telegram had $400 million in digital assets by the end of 2023. This figure shows the role cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology play in the platform’s ecosystem.
Investigation Details
The investigation, reported by Yonhap news agency, is spearheaded by the National Office of Investigation. However, the cyber investigation bureau has refrained from commenting on the ongoing probe. The urgency of the investigation follows reports of rampant deepfake pornography within Telegram chatrooms, spotlighting the app’s potential role in these cybercrimes.
Government and Public Response
Amidst growing concerns, South Korean authorities last week vowed to intensify efforts against sexually exploitative deepfake activities. This move aligns with global actions, such as a French investigation into Pavel Durov, the Russian-born founder of Telegram, over allegations of facilitating organized crime through the platform. South Korea’s media regulator is also seeking enhanced cooperation from French authorities to address Telegram-related issues more effectively.
Statistics and Measures
According to a report by Security Hero, a U.S.-based identity theft protection startup, 53% of individuals featured in deepfake pornography are South Korean artists and actresses. The police reported a huge increase in deepfake sex crime cases, with 297 instances already investigated this year, compared to 156 in all of 2021. The South Korean government is also considering stringent laws that would criminalize the purchase or viewing of sexually exploitative deepfakes.
The South Korean government’s actions, including potential legal amendments and international cooperation, show a committed stance against digital sexual exploitation. The outcome of this investigation could influence global standards and practices concerning the regulation of encrypted messaging platforms like Telegram.
French Gov Sites Hacked Following the Arrest of Telegram CEOCurrently after the investigations, the Telegram CEO Pavel Durov was released on Wednesday. The born billionaire was apparently released from police custody and transferred to Court for further questioning. In a statement, a French prosecutor disclosed that Durov is still under investigation and cannot leave the France jurisdictions.
