Telegram denies the charges against its CEO, claiming that the company should not be held responsible for user actions.
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| Durov, the founder of Telegram, is under house arrest in France and faces potential imprisonment if found guilty. Symbolic image |
Paris, France – August 28, 2024:
Telegram CEO Pavel Durov, the Russian billionaire behind the popular messaging app, has found himself in a legal predicament after being formally charged by French prosecutors. The charges, which include "complicity in distributing child pornography, illegal drugs, and hacking software," as well as "refusing to cooperate with investigations into illegal activity on Telegram," have sent shockwaves through the tech world.
Durov, who was arrested in Paris on Saturday, was released from police custody after paying a hefty bail of €5 million. However, he is now under court monitoring and is required to check in at a police station twice a week. This effectively bars him from leaving France, a significant restriction for a man known for his nomadic lifestyle and frequent travels.
Telegram has vehemently denied the charges against Durov, asserting that the accusations are "absurd" and that the company should not be held responsible for the actions of its users. The messaging app, which has gained a reputation for its strong privacy features, has emphasized its commitment to combating illegal activity on its platform.
The investigation into Durov and Telegram is expected to be a lengthy process, potentially lasting for months or even years. The outcome of the case could have far-reaching implications for the future of the popular messaging app and its founder. If found guilty, Durov could face significant legal consequences, including imprisonment.
The charges against Durov have raised concerns about the potential misuse of technology and the challenges of regulating online platforms. While Telegram has taken steps to address illegal activity on its platform, the case highlights the difficulties of policing the vast expanse of the internet.
As the investigation unfolds, the world will be watching closely to see how this legal drama plays out. The fate of Pavel Durov and the future of Telegram hang in the balance.