Ukraine has implemented a ban on the Telegram messaging app for government officials, military personnel, and critical infrastructure workers, citing national security concerns in the ongoing conflict with Russia.
The announcement was made by Ukraine’s Security and Defense Council via Facebook.
The National Cybersecurity Coordination Centre highlighted that Telegram has been exploited by Russia for cyberattacks, phishing, and the dissemination of malware, posing significant security threats.
While the ban generally prohibits its use, exceptions may be granted for those using Telegram for official duties.
Ukrainian citizens are still permitted to access Telegram on their personal devices, where the app remains a crucial platform for communication and updates about the war.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is expected to continue utilizing Telegram for public engagement, despite the security issues raised.
Kyrylo Budanov, Ukraine’s intelligence chief, revealed the risks associated with the app, warning that Russian intelligence could access personal messages.
He stated that the situation goes beyond concerns about freedom of speech, framing it as a critical matter of national security.
