Telegram founder Pavel Durov is under investigation in France for alleged involvement in organized crime on the messaging app. Durov, a Russian-born billionaire and French national, faces accusations including facilitating illicit transactions and distribution of child sexual images. He has been placed under judicial supervision and required to pay a €5m deposit, report to a police station twice weekly, and remain in France.
Despite the investigation, being formally investigated does not presume guilt in France. Durov’s lawyer maintains that Telegram adheres to legal standards and dismisses the accusations as baseless. Durov has not made public statements regarding the situation.
The developments have raised eyebrows in the tech industry, given Telegram’s popularity and its founder’s notoriety. As the case unfolds, many are watching closely to see the outcome of the investigation into one of the most influential figures in the messaging app sector.