The UK government is considering banning a covert internet network known as “Terrorgram”. Operating on the messaging app Telegram, the group spreads neo-fascist terrorist ideologies and has been connected to multiple deadly attacks globally.
The UK government states that the order will take effect on April 26 if approved by Parliament. This implies that it will be illegal to be a member of the network, to solicit support for it, or, in some cases, to display content connected to it. A fine of indefinite amount or up to 14 years in prison may be imposed for some proscription offenses.
“We must do everything in our power to deter and limit the reach of hateful and terrorist ideologies, and to protect the most vulnerable in our society. Proscribing the Terrorgram collective will do just that,” Security Minister Tom Tugendhat said.
What is “Terrorgram”?
“Terrorgram” is a network of far-right extremist channels and accounts on the messaging app Telegram. Users promote white supremacist ideologies, share bomb-making tutorials, and glorify violence. While relatively small, the group has been linked to several deadly attacks around the world, including a shooting at an LGBTQ+ nightclub in Slovakia and the arrest of suspected extremists in Canada.
Many extremist groups flocked to Telegram after other platforms like Facebook and YouTube cracked down on harmful content in 2019. Telegram, with its encrypted messaging, allows users to share content with relative anonymity. While the app has made some efforts to remove extremist channels, “Terrorgram” continues to operate.
Why is the government banning “Terrorgram”?
“Terrorgram” is going to be added to the UK government’s list of prohibited terrorist groups. Since the UK would be the first to outlaw an online terror network, this is a historic move. Supporting “Terrorgram” could result in up to 14 years in prison if the ban is approved. According to the government, “Terrorgram” seeks to radicalize youth and encourage violence.
Who’s on the banned list?
The UK government has the power to proscribe organisations under the Terrorism Act 2000. This means banning groups that commit or promote terrorism. Currently, the list includes 80 organisations, ranging from white supremacist groups like The Base and National Action to Islamist terror groups like Al-Qaeda and Boko Haram. Belonging to a proscribed organisation or expressing support for them is a criminal offence.
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