Madras High Court Orders Telegram to Block Fake PhonePe Channels
Madras High Court instructs Telegram to block fake channels using PhonePe’s name and logo to prevent financial fraud and protect user trust in digital payments.
PhonePe has raised multiple allegations against Telegram, particularly over fraudulent activities, and the situation has escalated to the point of reaching court. During the hearings, the Madras High Court criticized Telegram for allowing misuse of PhonePe’s name and logo. PhonePe argued that fake channels on Telegram are causing it financial losses, which could potentially erode public trust in online payments.
In response, the court directed Telegram to block and delete these fraudulent channels that misuse PhonePe’s branding to deceive users and siphon money under false pretenses. PhonePe had complained that these channels are damaging both the company’s reputation and its users’ trust.
Telegram informed the court that it cannot proactively identify and block such channels on its own. However, Telegram assured that it would promptly block any reported channels if either PhonePe or users flagged them. The court instructed that PhonePe should notify Telegram about any fraudulent channels it discovers, after which Telegram must act to block them.
PhonePe’s complaint centers on the creation of fake channels on Telegram that use its name and logo, making it difficult for people to differentiate between the genuine and fake PhonePe services. These channels deceive people, resulting in financial fraud. PhonePe asked the court to ensure that these channels are shut down. Telegram committed to taking action on user complaints and to blocking fraudulent channels if notified by PhonePe. The court emphasized that PhonePe should report such channels to Telegram promptly for action.
