The use of the messaging app Telegram for illegal activities, including drug trafficking, has brought the attention of authorities and the arrest of its billionaire founder, Pavel Durov, in Paris. Despite being used for illicit purposes, Telegram is popular for its freedom from government censorship and control, especially in countries like Russia and Iran where other platforms are restricted. While Durov’s arrest is seen as a law enforcement issue, it is also viewed through the lens of geopolitics, as the app is used by both Russian officials and the opposition, as well as in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine. Concerns about privacy and lack of end-to-end encryption have also been raised, with critics pointing out the vulnerability of users to hackers and government coercion. The arrest of Durov has sparked a debate on free speech and political motivations, with analysts suggesting that it may have wider implications in the current political landscape. Despite these concerns, Telegram remains a popular platform for sharing news and information, with millions of users relying on it for communication and updates, especially in regions affected by conflict and censorship.
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Photo credit www.aljazeera.com
Pavel Durov’s Telegram audience: From Drug Dealers to Putin Critics | Exploring the Rare Social Media Following
