Telegram Briefly Removed From Apple’s App Store Over Alleged Child Sexual Abuse Content

Apple briefly removed the messaging app Telegram from its App Store on Monday after allegedly violating its guidelines on child sexual abuse material (CSAM). The popular platform, founded by billionaire CEO Pavel Durov, was taken offline without any prior announcement, preventing new users from downloading it. Existing users could still access Telegram during this period before it was restored later that night.

Apple's decision was made following a review that identified content violating their strict guidelines on CSAM. Once Telegram promptly removed the offending content and banned the user responsible, the app was reinstated to the App Store. In response to Telegram's restoration, the company's official X account tweeted, "reports of my demise are greatly exaggerated," accompanied by the Apple emoji.

Telegram claimed that Apple had reported one user sharing CSAM, which was then banned. The messaging platform highlighted its efforts in removing over 337,900 groups and channels related to CSAM in 2026. However, Telegram's actions drew criticism from Apple co-founder and CEO Tim Sweeney, who called for increased competition within the App Store and accused Apple of capriciously removing a vital communication tool for a billion users.

Russian authorities recently charged Telegram's CEO with aiding terrorism amid an ongoing crackdown on major internet platforms in the country. Telegram has become a crucial communication platform during the Russia-Ukraine war, used by both sides.