Telegram Founder Pavel Durov Faces Third Interrogation in Paris Over Alleged Crime Links

Pavel Durov, the founder of Telegram, appeared in a Paris courthouse for the third time as French authorities advance their investigation into his alleged role in facilitating organized crime through the messaging platform. The 40-year-old entrepreneur, holding dual Russian and French citizenship, is under scrutiny for complicity in hosting illicit transactions, child exploitation content, and other illegal activities on Telegram.

Durov arrived with a team of four defense lawyers for a full day of questioning. His legal team is challenging the indictment in both French and European courts, dismissing the accusations as baseless. During the session, Durov provided detailed explanations to counter the claims.

French authorities note that Telegram's cooperation has improved since the probe began. In his first interrogation in December 2024, Durov acknowledged the rise in criminal activity on the platform and committed to enhancing its moderation tools. The case underscores the ongoing tension between encryption, privacy, and law enforcement demands.