FRANCE
Telegram founder Pavel Durov hit with criminal charges in France after refusing to help authorities wiretap users
Pavel Durov Case: Telegram CEO Pavel Durov was charged with complicity in facilitating crime on the messaging platform, including child exploitation and drug trafficking. Wiretap evidence played a key role in the investigation, revealing Durov’s refusal to assist French authorities in monitoring suspected criminal activities on Telegram. The wiretaps further highlighted Durov’s reluctance to cooperate with legal requests for user data, which ultimately contributed to his arrest. Released on bail, Durov remains under investigation, and the case raises concerns over the role of technology in criminal enterprises and the importance of lawful interception.