Telegram Founder Questioned Over Illegal Content
As the investigation into Telegram continues, the company's efforts to moderate its content and prevent the spread of illegal material will be under scrutiny, with Durov's lawyers arguing that the company has taken steps to improve its moderation and that the investigation is an overreach of French authorities' power.
Pavel Durov, the 40-year-old founder of Telegram, was questioned by French investigating magistrates in Paris over allegations of enabling organized crime through the platform, with charges including complicity in running an online platform that allowed illicit transactions and child sex abuse images.
Durov, who was detained in Paris in 2024, is under formal investigation for illegal content on Telegram and has denied the claims, with his lawyers arguing that the investigation is unlawful. This was his third round of questioning since being charged with multiple infractions, and despite initial cooperation issues, French authorities have noted an improvement in Telegram's moderation since Durov's arrest.
Durov's lawyers have filed motions to dismiss the charges and are challenging the case's constitutionality in France and the European Union. The questioning is part of an ongoing investigation into Telegram's role in spreading illegal content, and Durov's involvement has been a topic of controversy, with French investigators seeking to determine the extent of his knowledge and involvement in the alleged crimes.
The case against Durov and Telegram is being closely watched, with implications for online platforms and their responsibility to regulate content, and the outcome of the investigation and any potential trial is likely to have significant consequences for the company and its founder.