Pavel Durov, founder and CEO of Telegram, appeared before a Parisian judge on Friday for his first in-depth interrogation regarding alleged complicity in criminal activities facilitated via the messaging platform.
Durov, who remains in France under judicial supervision after his August release on a €5 million bail, faces charges for allegedly failing to address the distribution of illicit content, including child exploitation materials and narcotics, on Telegram.
“I have faith in the French justice system,” Durov said during a midday break at the Paris Judicial Court, where he arrived with his lawyers, David-Olivier Kaminski and Christophe Ingrain.
His release conditions include bi-weekly check-ins with authorities and a travel ban.
Despite the legal pressure, sources close to the case suggest that Telegram has since increased its cooperation with law enforcement, addressing judicial requests more promptly.
Durov, who previously criticised the case as “misguided,” has acknowledged the challenges posed by Telegram’s growing user base, which he estimates at 950 million monthly active users.
The investigation has also reignited concerns about Telegram’s impact on the TON blockchain ecosystem and its native Toncoin cryptocurrency.
While Durov’s legal battle unfolds, Telegram has implemented privacy policy updates and strengthened moderation efforts.
The case has drawn international attention, with Moscow warning against potential political persecution, highlighting the delicate balance between technological innovation and regulatory scrutiny.
