Telegram CEO insists on innocence after French arrest

With recent news surrounding the arrest of Pavel Durov, the founder of Telegram, it has sparked discussions on the responsibilities of platforms and their owners for the misuse of these platforms. The company has vehemently denied any accountability for the abuse, stating that it is absurd to hold them responsible. French officials have confirmed Durov’s arrest in connection to a police investigation into criminal activities on the social network.

Despite not being encrypted by default, Telegram is known for its lax moderation policies, positioning itself as a private and censorship-free alternative to mainstream social networks. The company highlights that nearly a billion users globally rely on Telegram for communication and access to essential information. They express hope for a swift resolution to the current situation.

Telegram’s significance extends to being a crucial source of information during the conflict between Ukraine and Russia, which adds to the interest in Durov’s case. The Russian Embassy in Paris expresses concerns about the handling of Durov, considering his dual citizenship in Russia, France, and the United Arab Emirates.

In a rare interview with Tucker Carlson, Durov emphasized Telegram’s commitment to neutrality and resistance to government interference in moderation. He strategically avoids visiting countries where the company attracts significant attention, opting for locations aligned with Telegram’s values and operations.

Credit: www.theverge.com