Brazil’s Federal judge has lifted the suspension on Telegram, a popular encrypted messaging app, which was temporarily banned by Brazil over its failure to cooperate in an investigation into neo-Nazi chat groups. The blockage had impacted the freedom of communication of users not involved in the investigation, the judge said. However, a daily fine of BRL 1 million (about $200,000, €181,000) for non-compliance continues to be in place. Brazil had asked Telegram to provide details, including names, tax identity numbers, profile photos, bank information, and registered credit cards of channel members of two neo-Nazi groups accused of inciting violence in schools. The court also noted Telegram’s “past clashes with the judiciary” and stated that “cyberspace cannot be a free territory.” Telegram founder and CEO Pavel Durov had earlier said it was “technologically impossible” to provide data. The company emphasizes its commitment to protect privacy and free speech. The company has been blocked by other governments in the past, including Iran, China, and Russia.
Akhil Bharat Times News 