5 countries where Telegram has faced a permanent or temporary ban
Telegram, one of the world’s most popular messaging apps, has often run into trouble with governments. While it markets itself as a secure, privacy-first platform, its use by activists, dissidents, and even extremist groups has led several nations to block it outright. Here are five countries where Telegram is banned and the reasons behind it.
China Banned since 2015 after human rights lawyers and activists used Telegram to organise. Authorities cited “national security” concerns.
2/5
Iran Blocked in 2018 for being widely used in protests and for hosting “immoral content.” Telegram was the country’s most popular app before the ban.
3/5
Vietnam A ban was ordered in 2025, citing the platform's use for disseminating "antistate documents" and "bad information". Telegram's ban, however, was later lifted and the app services were restored.
Pakistan Periodically blocks Telegram over security concerns and refusal to comply with local content regulations.
5/5
Thailand Banned in 2020 for its use in organizing anti-government protests. However, the ban was then later lifted and the messaging app is available for users now.
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