Telegram: A Popular Messaging App with Dark Underbelly of Crime and Extremism

Telegram attracts billions. In Brazil, 167,000 subscribe to a news channel for reality shows. In India, over 1 million study for government exams. A crypto trading channel has 3 million followers in Arabic. However, the app also has a dark side. Cocaine, meth, handguns, and stolen checks are sold. White nationalists use it to coordinate and plan rallies. Hamas broadcasted its Oct. 7 attack on Israel on the platform.

Global Usage of Telegram

Telegram has a huge global presence, with billions of users worldwide. In Brazil, the app has formed a significant part of the country's media landscape, with 167,000 individuals subscribing to its news channel specifically for reality shows. In India, over 1 million people utilize Telegram as a study aid for government exams, while a crypto trading channel in Arabic boasts three million followers.