Pavel Durov, Telegram founder, at the center of a judicial investigation in France 🚓

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On August 24th, Pavel Durov, founder and CEO of the messaging app Telegram, was arrested at Le Bourget airport in France. This arrest was made as part of a judicial investigation following a preliminary inquiry conducted by the cybercrime section of the Paris prosecutor’s office.

An Investigation Under the Banner of Cybercrime 🚓

The Franco-Russian billionaire faces no less than twelve charges. Among these charges are :

• Complicity in possession and distribution of child pornography images
• Administration of a platform facilitating illicit transactions
• Money laundering as part of an organized gang

The authorities are also questioning Telegram’s management of cryptology tools.

These accusations reflect an accumulation of suspicions about Telegram’s insufficient moderation. As a reminder, the platform has nearly a billion users worldwide.

A case emblematic of social media regulation challenges 👩🏾‍⚖️

Jean-Michel Bernigaud, Secretary General of the French National Judicial Police’s Office for Minors (OFMIN), emphasized the importance of this case by pointing out « the lack of moderation and cooperation from the platform, particularly in the fight against child abuse ». For French authorities, this is not an attack on freedom of expression, as Durov’s supporters claim, but a rigorous application of the law to protect citizens, especially the most vulnerable.

Facing criticism, President Emmanuel Macron firmly denied any infringement on freedom of expression in France. « France is deeply committed to freedom of expression and communication, to innovation, and to the spirit of entrepreneurship. It will remain so. » he declared. He also reminded that Durov’s arrest is part of an ongoing judicial investigation and is in no way a political decision.

The uncertain future of Telegram and its founder  😥

For its part, Telegram responded with a statement, asserting that the company complies with European Union laws, including the Digital Services Act. The platform also reminded that its moderation meets industry standards. It categorically rejects the idea that Durov or Telegram could be held responsible for abuses committed by some users.

« Telegram’s CEO Pavel Durov has nothing to hide and travels frequently in Europe. », the statement emphasizes.

In the same statement, the platform expresses hope for a quick resolution of the situation.

While Pavel Durov is still in police custody, a situation that could extend until August 28th, the case remains in the hands of French magistrates and the Center for Combating Digital Crime (C3N) as well as the Anti-Fraud Office (ONAF). The resolution of this case could have major repercussions not only for Telegram but also for all online platforms facing increased government regulation.

In this tense climate, the outcome of the investigation will determine not only Pavel Durov’s fate but could also serve as a precedent for other tech giants in their management of illegal content on their platforms.

Do you use Telegram? What do you think about this case? Come discuss it in the comments.