INTRODUCTION: There are many kinds of social media platforms that can be found online; everything has its very own side, good or bad, etc. One of the platforms is called “Telegram,” which basically is a widely used messaging app. It has some encryption and privacy features, which unfortunately have made it a site for various misconducts. As more users increasingly rely upon this application for communication, the prevalence of scams has reached its apex in various nations. It needs a deeper understanding of the legal implications and safeguarding parameters and strategies to protect individuals.
GROUND: There are some highlighted grounds, which is a massive gap and disadvantage for use THIS, which are
• Fraudulent misrepresentation by scammers by posting legitimate entity or individuals, financial loss, etc.
• Unauthorized use of personal information to commit fraud, etc.
• Breach of contract.
• Telegram scam falls under cybercrime provisions, which covers offenses like hacking, phishing, unauthorized access to data, etc.
IMPACT: The effect of this on the victims can be dangerous, which basically leads to financial loss and emotional distress, etc. Which is a literal breakdown for any distinct person who has gone through this chaos. The scammers exploit the platform’s anonymous facility and reach. Which creates challenges and issues for authorities to track offenders.
PROVISION: The provisions and measures which can be taken during this distress period are
1. One can take help through the Information Technology Act, 2000.
2. Also, the Bhatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023
3. The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012 (POCSO), is also a very good example that provides help.
4. General Data Protection Regulation, 2018 (GDPR).
5. Electronic Communications Privacy Act, 1986 (ECPA).
6. Also, for proper view, victims should report fraud to relevant authorities, such as cybercrime cells, data protection agencies, and consumer protection bodies. Reporting helps in tracking and prosecuting offenders and can also aid in recovering lost belongings.
CASE LAW: There is a very good real-life example, which has set the standard benchmark. The case is Shreya Singhal v. Union of India (2015), in which the Supreme Court has gone through the matter of misusing the virtual platforms, which has shown the need for flexible regulation for the purpose of protecting users from fraud while safeguarding freedom of speech & expression.
CONCLUSION: For this telegram fraud, the stringent approach is in need. Which also involves proper parameters, safeguards, and user behavior. The latest scams and understanding the legal rights are essential steps, which also can be addressed by our Online Legal Query, also known as OLQ, which also can provide help and advice through senior advocates and legal experts.
