SEOUL, September 2 — South Korean authorities have initiated a preliminary investigation into the messaging platform Telegram, suspecting its role in facilitating deepfake sexual crimes. During a routine press briefing, National Investigative Service Chief Yoo Chong-soo announced that the police are looking into the matter, emphasizing the severity of the issue.
Background of the Investigation
The investigation comes as part of a broader effort to combat the rising tide of deepfake sexual exploitation, which involves the creation of fake videos or images that depict individuals, often celebrities or ordinary people, engaging in explicit acts without their consent. The South Korean police have received numerous complaints related to such crimes, prompting a thorough inquiry into Telegram’s potential involvement.
Challenges Faced by the Police
Yoo highlighted the challenges faced by the police in their investigation, particularly the non-cooperation from Telegram in providing account information and other relevant data. It’s not just a problem we face in Korea; other countries like the United States are also struggling with the same issue, Yoo stated. He added that while not all individuals involved in criminal activities on Telegram are at large, the police are working diligently to bring them to justice.
International Collaboration
The National Investigative Service has also expressed its commitment to working with international law enforcement agencies and organizations. Yoo mentioned ongoing efforts to collaborate with French investigative authorities and several international bodies to find ways to investigate Telegram more effectively.
Recent Arrests and Cases
In the past month, the National Investigative Service has received 88 reports of deepfake sexual crimes, identifying 24 suspects. The police are also conducting a preliminary investigation into eight Telegram bots that automatically generate deepfake sexual exploitation content. Additionally, they are investigating various group chat channels that distribute such content.
Telegram Founder’s Legal Troubles
Adding to the complexity of the situation, Telegram’s founder and CEO, Pavel Durov, was arrested in France on August 24. He was accused of failing to take measures to prevent illegal activities on the platform, including fraud, drug trafficking, organized crime, child pornography, and the promotion of terrorism. Durov was apprehended at the Bourget Airport near Paris upon his arrival from Azerbaijan on a private jet.
Public and Legal Response
The rise of deepfake sexual crimes has prompted calls for stricter penalties in South Korea. Over the past six years, more than 2,100 people have been identified as victims of deepfake sexual exploitation, with minors accounting for over 30% of the cases. The South Korean government is considering enhancing legal measures to address this growing problem.
Conclusion
The preliminary investigation into Telegram marks a significant step in South Korea’s fight against deepfake sexual crimes. With the challenges of obtaining cooperation from the platform and the need for international collaboration, the police are determined to address the issue comprehensively. As the investigation unfolds, the public and authorities alike await further developments in this ongoing battle against cybercrime.
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Note: This article is based on the information provided and existing knowledge. The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the policies or positions of any news organization.
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