Iraq blocks Telegram for reasons related to national security
The logo of Telegram App. Photo: AFP
Baghdad (IraqiNews.com) – The Iraqi Ministry of Communications announced on Sunday that it blocked the Telegram messaging application for national security reasons, based on directives from superior agencies.
The Communications Ministry issued a statement informing internet users in Iraq that the blocking of the Telegram application is based on directives by superior agencies for reasons related to national security.
The statement illustrated that the step aims to preserve the personal data of citizens, as Telegram mismanaged users’ personal data.
The statement clarified that governmental institutions in Iraq repeatedly asked the company operating the Telegram App to close platforms that cause leakage of data from state institutions and personal data of citizens.
The statement indicated that the application poses a threat to national security and societal peace in Iraq, but the company did not respond to any of these requests.
The app is widely used in Iraq for messaging but also as a source of news and for sharing content, according to Reuters.
Some channels contain large amounts of personal data including the names, addresses and family ties of Iraqis, Reuters added.
The Ministry of Communication confirmed that it respects citizens’ rights to freedom of expression and communication without compromising the security of the state or governmental institutions.
The Communication Ministry also expressed confidence in citizens’ understanding of this measure.