Pavel Durov, co-founder and CEO of Telegram, appeared before a Paris court after being detained by French authorities. Facing six criminal charges related to criminal activity on Telegram, including complicity in distributing child sexual abuse material (CSAM), drug trafficking, and fraud, Durov posted a €5 million bail to avoid jail. He is restricted from leaving France and must report to authorities twice a week.
These charges arise as the European Union enforces its Digital Services Act (DSA), aimed at regulating big tech platforms. Durov denies the allegations, stating that it’s “absurd” to hold a platform responsible for misuse by users. Telegram asserts it complies with DSA regulations and that Durov “has nothing to hide.”
The arrest followed a four-day detention at Le Bourget airport, where Durov arrived via private jet from Azerbaijan. His arrest is part of a larger investigation into Telegram’s role in facilitating illegal activities due to its encryption, which appeals to criminals. French prosecutors claim Telegram has been uncooperative in moderating harmful content.
Telegram’s reputation is divided: while praised for supporting pro-democracy movements, it’s also a haven for extremist groups, illegal trade, and conspiracy theorists. Despite criticism from child safety groups and governments, Telegram remains a favorite among free speech advocates, including Elon Musk and Tucker Carlson.
Russian officials, including Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, have criticized Durov’s arrest, calling it an infringement on his civil liberties, but French President Emmanuel Macron denied any political motivation behind the charges.
If convicted, Durov could face up to 10 years in prison.
