Telegram's Pavel Durov Defends Platform’s Crime Prevention Efforts After Legal Battle

Telegram CEO Pavel Durov has reaffirmed the platform’s commitment to content moderation and crime prevention, stating that it has exceeded legal requirements in these areas.

In a March 17 update on Telegram, Durov emphasized:

"For years, Telegram has not only complied with legal obligations but has gone above and beyond in moderation, cooperation, and crime prevention."

His statement comes as French authorities continue to scrutinize the platform’s role in curbing illicit activities.

Regulatory Pressure and August 2024 Arrest

With a global user base approaching 1 billion, Telegram is one of the world’s most popular messaging apps. However, it has faced mounting pressure over its content moderation policies.

Durov’s legal troubles escalated in August 2024, when French authorities arrested him, alleging that Telegram had not done enough to prevent criminal activities, including child exploitation, drug trafficking, and online hate speech.

In response to the controversy, Telegram implemented stricter policies, revising its FAQ section to highlight a more proactive approach to tackling illegal content. The company has since intensified efforts to remove child sexual abuse material (CSAM), terrorist propaganda, and fraudulent schemes.

Durov’s Return to Dubai

Following his legal ordeal, Durov has returned to Dubai, where he continues to oversee Telegram’s operations. Expressing relief at being home, he thanked the platform’s users for their unwavering support.

"I’m incredibly grateful for the millions of people who stood by me during this unexpected journey. Our billion-strong community is unstoppable," Durov said.

Despite regulatory challenges, Telegram remains committed to enhancing its security measures while maintaining its stance on privacy and free expression.