French prosecutors have filed charges against Telegram CEO Pavel Durov, citing “complicity in distributing child pornography, illegal drugs, and hacking software” on Telegram. The charge further alleges that Durov “refused to cooperate with investigations into illegal activity” on his platform, The Wall Street Journal reports.
In that respect, Durov was arrested outside Paris on Saturday and released after he posted bail of €5 million. During the ongoing investigation, he is not allowed to leave France. He is also supposed to report to a police station twice a week.
The investigation may take several months or even years to finish. In that respect, Pavel Durov will stay in France for the time being. Since he is a person who travels frequently, it is a considerable change for him.
Telegram dismissed the charges against Mr. Durov as “absurd.” It says he cannot be held liable for what users do on the app. The continuing legal dispute threatens to affect how Telegram operates and Durov’s future.
The case reflects a broader debate over the liability of digital platforms. As courts rule, that decision could affect other leaders in the technology sector.
