[Telegram Responds to Temporary Removal by Apple: Attackers Posted Pornographic Content in Public Groups to Launch 'Takedown Ransom'] BlockBeats News, August 4 — Telegram founder Pavel Durov posted on his personal channel stating that Apple temporarily removed Telegram from the App Store last night due to a user posting illegal pornographic content in a public group. The app was reinstated within a few hours. The attackers used technical means to bypass content moderation by editing old messages in active groups and embedding AI-modified illegal content, making it 'invisible' to regular members to avoid timely detection and reporting. The attackers behind this incident are identified as 'takedown extortionists,' who use automated accounts to distribute illegal content in public groups and then report it to platforms like Apple, attempting to force group administrators to pay a ransom. If the ransom is not paid, they exploit platform review mechanisms to push for the removal of the affected community or even the app itself. The Telegram founder emphasized that illegal content in public groups is not a systemic issue, as the platform's existing moderation mechanisms—such as user reporting, AI filtering, and content hash detection—are effective in handling violations. The attackers had to rely on complex methods like hiding content and tampering with historical messages to create an impact. The Telegram founder warned that this incident highlights a new risk faced by user-generated content platforms: malicious groups could abuse app store review processes to disrupt the operations of legitimate communities. As attack methods continue to evolve, other social platforms may face similar threats. He called on app developers and online communities to remain vigilant and improve content moderation and risk prevention mechanisms.