Star Health Sues Telegram Over Data Leak

Star Health, a leading Indian insurer, has filed a lawsuit against Telegram and a hacker named xenZen for leaking personal data and medical reports via chatbots on the messaging app. A Tamil Nadu court has ordered Telegram to block any related chatbots or websites. Telegram has yet to respond.

Top Indian insurer Star Health has launched legal action against Telegram and a self-styled hacker after Reuters uncovered the unauthorized disclosure of personal data and medical reports of policyholders through chatbots on the messaging platform.

A Tamil Nadu court has granted a temporary injunction, instructing Telegram to block any chatbots or websites within India that distribute this sensitive information. Star Health labeled the breach as 'illegal hacking and unauthorized access' in a public notice published in The Hindu newspaper.

Telegram has so far remained silent on the issue. Last week, Reuters reported that a hacker identified as xenZen had made confidential medical data of Star customers available on Telegram, following rising concerns about the app's role in facilitating criminal activities.

(With inputs from agencies.)