UK regulator Ofcom is questioning Telegram about its content moderation practices after an arsonist targeting properties linked to Keir Starmer was recruited via the app. The arsonist received instructions and payment offers from an account believed to be linked to Russia.
The case highlights concerns about the use of encrypted messaging apps for coordinating illegal activities and potential breaches of the UK's Online Safety Act, prompting regulatory action against major platforms.
Telegram is facing scrutiny from the UK's communications regulator, Ofcom, following the conviction of an arsonist who targeted properties linked to Keir Starmer. Roman Lavrynovych, 22, was found guilty of conspiring to commit arson attacks in May 2025 on two houses associated with Starmer and a car previously owned by the politician.
The trial revealed that Lavrynovych was recruited and directed via Telegram by an individual known as 'El Money', who communicated in Russian and Ukrainian. This handler reportedly offered Lavrynovych £3,000 in cryptocurrency to carry out the attacks, film them, and ensure they received media coverage. Following the incidents, 'El Money' instructed Lavrynovych to leave the UK, stating, "Look, you attacked the home of a very high-ranking person in Britain."
Reports suggest that the 'El Money' account has connections to a sabotage network operating from Russia. Police recovered over 320 messages exchanged between 'El Money' and Lavrynovych on Telegram, dating back to September 2024. Lavrynovych and co-defendant Stanislav Carpiuc, 27, are due to be sentenced on Friday.
Telegram, founded by Russian-born Pavel Durov who relocated the company to Dubai, is subject to the UK's Online Safety Act. This legislation imposes broad risk assessment and safety duties on social media companies to prevent users from encountering illegal content. Ofcom has contacted Telegram to seek further clarification on its measures for detecting and preventing illegal incitement. This follows a separate investigation initiated by Ofcom in April concerning Telegram's efforts to prevent the sharing of child sexual abuse material, an accusation Telegram has denied.