Russia opens criminal case into Telegram founder Pavel Durov
8 hours ago
- #Telegram
- #Russia
- #Censorship
- Russia has launched a criminal investigation into Telegram founder Pavel Durov for 'abetting terrorist activities'.
- The investigation is based on claims by Russia’s federal security service that Telegram is compromised by Western and Ukrainian intelligence.
- Durov, who lives abroad, criticized the investigation as an attempt to suppress privacy and free speech.
- Russia announced plans to slow down Telegram’s traffic, pushing users toward a state-controlled alternative, MAX.
- The Kremlin aims to build a 'sovereign internet' tightly controlled by the state.
- Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated Telegram hosts material that could 'potentially pose a threat' to Russia.
- Russian officials claim Telegram was used in Ukrainian plots targeting Russian military officers and other attacks.
- Despite pressure, Russia has not blocked Telegram outright due to its widespread use among civilians and officials.
- Russian authorities demand Telegram comply with local laws, which critics say would require access to private chats and opposition channel purges.
- Durov left Russia in 2014 after selling his company VK and now lives in Dubai, holding Emirati and French citizenship.
- Russia previously failed to block Telegram in 2018 but is renewing its crackdown on uncontrolled media platforms.
- Russia has blocked WhatsApp, Facebook, and YouTube, leading to increased VPN usage.
- Western authorities have scrutinized Durov for weak moderation on Telegram, including issues like child abuse material and drug trafficking.
- Durov was detained in France last August over crimes linked to Telegram.