Telegram boss banned from leaving France in criminal probe

Pavel Durov, the founder of Telegram, has been placed under formal investigation in France amid a criminal probe into organized crime activities associated with the messaging app. Paris prosecutors have indicated that Durov is under judicial supervision, requiring him to pay a €5 million deposit, report to a police station twice weekly, and remain in France. He was detained at Le Bourget airport under a warrant related to allegations including complicity in facilitating illicit transactions and the distribution of child sexual abuse images. While being under investigation does not imply guilt, it suggests sufficient grounds for further inquiry. Durov's lawyer asserts that Telegram adheres to European digital regulations and that the allegations are unfounded. The case has sparked discussions about freedom of speech and the accountability of social media platforms, with notable figures like Elon Musk defending Durov. Telegram, which has over 950 million users, has faced criticism for not participating in international efforts to combat child abuse material online. Durov, who previously left Russia due to government pressures, holds multiple nationalities and has been a controversial figure in the tech industry.

- Pavel Durov is under investigation in France for alleged organized crime activities linked to Telegram.

- He is required to pay a €5 million deposit and report to police twice a week.

- The allegations include complicity in illicit transactions and distribution of child sexual abuse images.

- The case raises concerns about freedom of speech and social media accountability.

- Telegram has been criticized for not joining international child protection initiatives.