Apple removed Telegram from its App Store after prohibited content appeared in a public group on the messaging platform. Telegram CEO Pavel Durov said an attacker inserted AI-altered illegal material into an edited message as part of an extortion attempt. Durov described the incident on X (formerly Twitter) on August 4.
Why Apple Pulled the App
Apple's decision came after the company flagged content that violated its guidelines. The specific material wasn't detailed by Apple, but Durov's account points to a manipulated image or video made to look like illegal activity. The attacker edited a message in a public group to include the AI-altered content, according to Durov.
Apple has strict rules against illegal or harmful content on its platform. When such material appears in an app, the company can remove it from the store. Telegram's removal means new users on Apple devices can't download the app, and existing users won't receive updates through the App Store.
Durov's Explanation
In a post on X, Durov said the attacker used AI to alter the material, making it appear as something it wasn't. He called it an extortion attempt but didn't name the attacker or specify the demand. Durov said Telegram is working to prevent similar incidents, though he didn't provide details on how.
The Telegram CEO's statement is the only public explanation so far. Apple hasn't commented on the removal or the content that triggered it. Durov's post didn't say whether Telegram has appealed the decision or if the company is in talks with Apple.
What the Removal Means for Users
For now, Telegram remains unavailable on the App Store. People who already have the app on their iPhones or iPads can still use it, but they won't get security updates or new features through Apple's system. That could leave users exposed to bugs or vulnerabilities until the app returns.
Telegram is a popular messaging app with hundreds of millions of users worldwide. Its removal from the App Store is a significant blow, especially in markets where iPhones are common. The app is still available on other platforms, including Android and desktop.
As of August 4, Telegram was not listed on the App Store. Apple has not publicly commented on the removal. Durov's post on X is the only explanation so far.
