Telegram CEO Pavel Durov Returns to Dubai Amid Ongoing Investigation

Pavel Durov, Telegram’s CEO, returned to Dubai after spending seven months under investigation in France regarding the app’s use in criminal activities. He criticized the charges against him and emphasized the need for effective platform moderation. Durov announced plans to enhance Telegram’s oversight to counter illicit activities and improve its reputation.

Pavel Durov, CEO and founder of Telegram, has returned to Dubai following his arrest in France, where he was held for seven months over allegations that the messaging app facilitated criminal activities. Despite the ongoing investigation, Durov stated he feels grateful to be back home and acknowledged the support of his legal team with a post on his Telegram channel. He holds dual citizenship in the UAE and France and had previously been arrested in August upon arrival at Le Bourget Airport.

Durov addressed the issues surrounding his arrest, claiming it was unexpected and expressing that his platform operates under strict moderation guidelines. He criticized the prosecution’s approach, stating that it is inappropriate to hold a CEO accountable for crimes reportedly committed by third parties on the platform. Moreover, he noted, “If a country is unhappy with an Internet service, the established practice is to start a legal action against the service itself.”

The founder of Telegram emphasized the app’s commitment to enhancing its moderation efforts in response to criminal activities. He mentioned that while most users behave according to the law, a small fraction misuses the platform, negatively impacting its image. Durov announced plans to transform Telegram’s moderation from a source of critique into one of commendation, collaborating with organizations like the Internet Watch Foundation to address these issues.

While the investigation remains active, his departure from France occurred without stated conditions. Law enforcement has assured that, despite Durov’s release, the investigative process continues. The CEO’s return marks a significant moment, considering the growing scrutiny faced by digital communication platforms across the globe.

In summary, Pavel Durov’s return to Dubai is amidst an ongoing investigation regarding Telegram’s alleged facilitation of criminal activity. He has criticized the legality of the charges against him, emphasizing the need for proper moderation within the platform. Durov’s reflections on his experience highlight a commitment to improving Telegram’s reputation while maintaining the integrity of user interactions, as he plans to enhance the platform’s moderation practices further. The case signifies wider concerns about how messaging services navigate law enforcement expectations and the responsibilities they bear in preventing misuse of their platforms.

Original Source: www.upi.com