Brand expert explains why Telegram CEO Durov is under formal investigation: Video
Pavel Durov, a Russian-born entrepreneur who also holds French citizenship, has been at the helm of Telegram since its inception.
The app is known for its strong encryption and commitment to user privacy, which has made it a popular choice for millions worldwide.
However, these same features have also attracted the attention of criminal elements, leading to the current legal scrutiny.
According to a Marketing and Brand expert, Allyson Stewart-Allen, "The CEO of Telegram has been arrested in France mostly because the French authorities strongly believe that the company has not done the content moderation that it should be doing, the platform specifically is containing several indecent images of Children."
Adding that, "It's also a platform for organised crime, and a lot of these conversations are taking place on Telegram. Because they're encrypted means that authorities like the French government, like the European Union, like the United States, are not gonna be able to access terrorism, for example, or other nefarious activities that are planned and pursued through Telegram's application," she said.
French judicial authorities have placed Durov under formal investigation as part of a broader probe into organized crime activities facilitated through Telegram The investigation focuses on several serious allegations, including illicit transactions on the platform and the distribution of sexual images of children.
Durov, however, was granted bail on Thursday, August 29 under strict conditions, including a €5 million ($5.5 million) deposit, reporting to the police twice a week, and a ban on leaving the French territory.
