Telegram encryption is indeed optional, and I understand their company structure doesn't make it easy for authority to request information. But the issue IMHO, is the fact of targetting tools. Knife can kill, yet we use everyday to cook and eat. Telegram is a tool.

Markets exist because people want things. Therein lies the problem. There's little difference if a messaging app facilitates vice that exists. Large-scale drug cartels etc. should be visible and therefore feasible to police (see images of Myanmar's compund of trafficked slaves for example. I feel th...