Pavel Durov, Chief Executive Officer of Telegram, has stated that the platform is prepared to exit markets that conflict with its core principles, emphasizing that the company is driven by the mission to uphold user rights rather than profit. Durov made this statement following his arrest at Le Bourget Airport in Paris on August 24, 2024, where he was detained over allegations that Telegram facilitated criminal activities.
Durov criticized the use of outdated laws to charge tech executives for crimes committed by third parties on platforms they manage, calling it a “misguided approach.” He highlighted that Telegram, which is banned in countries like Russia and Iran, has consistently aimed to strike a balance between privacy and security.
He further expressed concern that such legal actions could stifle innovation in the tech industry, stating, “No innovator will build new tools if they know they can be personally held responsible for potential abuse of those tools.”
Durov also underscored that Telegram is taking significant measures to remove criminal elements from its platform. His remarks reflect the company’s firm stance on protecting individual rights, even if it means withdrawing from certain markets.
The Russian-born founder’s arrest raised concerns about the broader challenges tech companies face in managing platform misuse while adhering to laws that may not be suited for modern technology.
