[Denver]

Anonymous aren't the only ones declaring war on Islamic State.

Encrypted messaging service Telegram has gone on the offensive against ISIS propaganda accounts, dismantling 78 channels across 12 languages.

The firm said that it was "disturbed " by reports that the terrorist group was using the app to hold secure communications and has taken action.

"We were disturbed to learn that Telegram's public channels were being used by ISIS to spread their propaganda," the company said.

"We are carefully reviewing all reports sent to us at abuse@telegram.org and are taking appropriate action to block such channels. As a result, this week alone we blocked 78 ISIS-related channels across 12 languages.

"We are also introducing an easier way for our users to report objectionable public content in the upcoming update of Telegram this week."

Telegram rose in popularity following revelations made by PRISM whistleblower Edward Snowden.

It functions in a similar way to WhatsApp, but includes enhanced privacy features like disappearing messages and encrypted chats.

The service has made it easier for users to report suspicious channels and promised to remove all illegal content, but insists that it remains committed to free speech.

"While we do block terrorist (eg ISIS-related) bots and channels, we will not block anybody who peacefully expresses alternative opinions," the company added.

Telegram's purge follows a declaration of cyber warfare on ISIS from hacktivist group Anonymous, who have vowed revenge for the Paris terrorist attacks on November 13.

http://www.digitalspy.com/tech/news/...anda-accounts/

[Niamh.]