Telegram CEO Pavel Durov Arrested Over Moderation Issues

Pavel Durov, founder and CEO of Telegram, was detained at Paris' Bourget airport. French media report the arrest relates to inadequate moderation on Telegram, allowing criminal activity. Durov, a Russian-born billionaire now holding multiple citizenships, faces scrutiny as Telegram's popularity raises security concerns in Europe.

Pavel Durov, the billionaire founder and CEO of the Telegram messaging app, was arrested Saturday evening at the Bourget airport outside Paris, as per reports from TF1 and BFM TV that cited unnamed sources.

The arrest reportedly centers on the lack of moderation on Telegram, which authorities believe has enabled criminal activities to proliferate on the platform. Telegram did not immediately respond to requests for comment, and the French Interior Ministry and police have also refrained from commenting. Russia, which has previously attempted to ban Telegram, noted that it is attempting to clarify Durov's status.

Durov, 39, is a prominent figure in the tech world, hailing from Russia, and has shifted between several countries in search of a base for his enterprise. Telegram, which he founded, aims to surpass one billion monthly active users. The app has become particularly significant in Russia and Ukraine, serving as a vital information source amid the ongoing conflict. However, its rising influence has brought it under the scrutiny of European authorities due to concerns over security and data breaches.

(With inputs from agencies.)