Britain's communications regulator Ofcom has opened an investigation into the messaging platform Telegram over concerns related to child sexual abuse material on the service.

The investigation represents the latest regulatory scrutiny facing the popular messaging app, which has faced increasing pressure from authorities in multiple countries over content moderation policies.

Telegram responded to the investigation through a statement provided to the BBC, in which the company "categorically denies Ofcom's accusations." The messaging service did not provide additional details about the specific nature of the regulatory concerns or the company's response to the investigation.

Ofcom, which regulates communications services in the United Kingdom, has not publicly disclosed the full scope or timeline of its investigation into the platform. The regulator has been granted expanded powers in recent years to oversee online platforms and their handling of harmful content.

Telegram, founded by Russian entrepreneur Pavel Durov, has grown to become one of the world's most widely used messaging platforms, known for its emphasis on privacy and encryption features. The platform has previously faced regulatory challenges in various jurisdictions over content moderation and law enforcement cooperation.