Telegram will not disclose data to Hong Kong courts amid security law ‘terrorism’ fears

Telegram will temporarily refuse data requests from the Hong Kong authorities until an international consensus is reached in relation to the ongoing political changes in the city. It comes as Hongkongers abandon certain messaging and social media platforms following the enactment of the national security law. The new security law will allow surveillance of those deemed a “national security threat”. The definition of terrorism in the law is vague and broad, even encompassing acts of vandalism against public property.

“We understand the importance of protecting the right to privacy of our Hong Kong users under these circumstances,” Mike Ravdonikas of Telegram said. He added that the firm has not disclosed any data to the Hong Kong authorities in the past.

Telegram's privacy terms state that they will cooperate with authorities over matters related to terrorism: “If Telegram receives a court order that confirms you’re a terror suspect, we may disclose your IP address and phone number to the relevant authorities.”

Source: HKFP

Further reading:
Microsoft and Zoom join Hong Kong data 'pause'
https://www.bbc.com/news/technology-53320715
U.S. will act to deny China access to Americans' data, says Pompeo
https://www.reuters.com/article/us-hongkong-protests-tech-pompeo/pompeo-praises-google-facebook-twitter-for-not-surrendering-user-data-to-hong-kong-government-idUSKBN2492AM

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