Apple briefly removes Telegram from App Store over child abuse material

Apple removed the Telegram messaging app globally from its App Store on August 3 following a review that uncovered child sexual abuse material (CSAM) on the platform. The app was subsequently restored hours later after Telegram removed the offending content and banned the user responsible.

According to Apple, the app's removal occurred after an inspection revealed content violating its strict guidelines against CSAM. An Apple spokesperson confirmed the app's restoration after the developer promptly removed the content and banned the user.

During the temporary removal, new users were unable to download Telegram, though existing users retained access. The app remained available on the Mac App Store and Google Play. Apple implemented the removal across multiple countries, including South Korea.

Telegram confirmed the app's return to the App Store without elaborating on the reason for its removal. Its official X account posted, "Reports of my demise are greatly exaggerated," accompanied by an Apple emoji. However, the company disputed Apple's framing to Forbes, stating they had removed one user sharing such material and banned them. Telegram claimed to have removed over 337,900 CSAM-related groups and channels in 2026.

This is not the first time Apple has removed Telegram from its App Store. In February 2018, the app was removed globally for "inappropriate content." In 2024, Apple removed Telegram from China's App Store, along with WhatsApp, Threads, and Signal, following an order from the country's internet regulator, a removal that remains in effect.