Pavel Durov, the founder and CEO of Telegram, was arrested on August 24, 2024, at Le Bourget airport in France. This arrest comes as part of a warrant issued due to concerns over the management of the Telegram platform, particularly its failure to implement end-to-end encryption by default and inadequate moderation to prevent criminal activities.
The arrest is linked to ongoing investigations into Telegram’s handling of illegal activities on its platform. Authorities claim that Telegram has not only failed to enforce adequate moderation but has also been uncooperative with law enforcement agencies in their efforts to curb criminal activities facilitated through the app. The French Interior Ministry’s special unit, focused on crimes against minors, was reportedly instrumental in issuing the arrest warrant.
Advertisement
Telegram’s Response
Following Pavel Durov’s arrest, Telegram released a statement affirming its compliance with European laws, including the Digital Services Act, and defending its moderation practices. The company emphasized Durov’s transparency and regular travel within Europe, labeling the accusations against him and the platform as unfounded. Telegram reiterated its commitment to serving its nearly one billion global users by providing a secure communication platform.
Background on Durov’s Journey
Pavel Durov founded Telegram in 2014 after resisting Russian government demands to censor opposition groups on his earlier platform, VKontakte. Forced to sell VKontakte, Durov relocated Telegram’s operations multiple times before settling in Dubai. He has consistently emphasized that Telegram should remain neutral and not be used as a tool for geopolitical agendas.
Russia’s Stance
In response to Durov’s arrest, Russia’s foreign ministry has requested access to him, noting that Durov holds French citizenship. Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev commented on the situation, suggesting that Durov’s departure from Russia had been a miscalculation, as he remains a controversial figure in the eyes of international security services.
Durov’s arrest highlights the complex challenges facing global tech platforms, particularly in balancing user privacy with regulatory compliance and law enforcement cooperation.
