Indonesia: Government limits access to Telegram July 14

Event

The Indonesian Communications Ministry announced on Friday, July 14, that the government will limit access to the Telegram secure messaging app due to security concerns. Officials said that individuals will no longer have web-based access to the service. According to the Communications Ministry, Telegram is used by terrorists to spread propaganda and advice on how to conduct attacks in the country. The government is also reportedly planning to ban access to the messaging app’s mobile platform. It is unclear how long the service will be banned.

Context

Telegram is an encrypted messaging system that is known to be used by terrorist groups like the Islamic State (IS).

Indonesia is on high security alert due to a generally heightened risk of terror attacks. IS sympathizers have carried out a series of mostly low-level attacks over the past few years, and there are fears of the potential return of hundreds of Indonesians who have gone to Syria to fight with IS. Three police officers were killed by IS associates in June 2017 alone.

Advice

Individuals in Indonesia are advised to expect disruptions to Telegram services and use other forms of communication.

Due to the heightened threat of terrorism in Indonesia, remain vigilant when visiting sites deemed particularly likely to be targeted (public transportation, train stations, ports, airports, public or government buildings, embassies or consulates, international organizations, schools and universities, religious sites, markets, hotels and restaurants frequented by foreigners/Westerners, festivals, etc.).