Star Health Insurance suffered a major data breach, exposing personal data of more than 31 million customers.
Telegram, the controversial messaging platform, told an Indian court that it will not be able to investigate all chatbots on its platform for possible data leaks. Allegations of a massive breach involving India’s largest health insurer, Star Health, had come to light. As it struggles to cope with a decline in its business and reputation, the embarrassed insurer has faced fallout following reports of a data breach in September. The leaked data included sensitive customer information such as medical claim details and biometric IDs that were leaked through a hacker on Telegram chatbots. But in response to Star Health’s call to monitor the entire platform, Telegram reiterated that such surveillance would violate Indian regulations, saying it would only remove flagged content.
Star Health Assistance Request
Star Health, which suffered badly from the breach, had approached the Madras High Court last month, seeking orders directing Telegram to stop functioning in connection with the leaked data. At Friday’s hearing, Star Health was ordered to name precisely which chatbots were problematic so Telegram could act quickly and prevent them from working. Telegram, while rejecting any direct policing role, suggested a high degree of cooperation with Star Health to eliminate specific reported cases of data misuse. This violation has caused the company’s shares to drop 11% since the scandal emerged.
Telegram scrutiny and global challenges
Telegram is now facing greater problems around the world after its founder, Pavel Durov, was formally investigated by French authorities for allegedly aiding illicit actions on the platform. Telegram and Durov have denied these accusations, ensuring a firm commitment to address criticism and better maintain the platform. Meanwhile, Telegram’s lawyer argued that Indian law now prohibits blanket surveillance of content.
Investigation of internal accusations
Star Health has launched an internal investigation into allegations that its chief security officer may have played a role in the information leak. The officer has reportedly been cooperative and there is no evidence of misconduct so far. As the hearing has been adjourned for two weeks, both sides are being watched closely as Star Health works to recover from the breach and restore customer trust.
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