Telegram Says CEO Durov Has ‘Nothing To Hide’

Messaging app Telegram has said its CEO Pavel Durov, who was detained in France on Saturday, has “nothing to hide.” From a report: Mr Durov was arrested at an airport north of Paris under a warrant for offences related to the app, according to officials. The investigation is reportedly about insufficient moderation, with Mr Durov accused of failing to take steps to curb criminal uses of Telegram. The app is accused of failure to co-operate with law enforcement over drug trafficking, child sexual content and fraud.

Telegram said in a statement that “its moderation is within industry standards and constantly improving.” The app added: “It is absurd to claim that a platform or its owner are responsible for abuse of that platform.” Telegram said Mr Durov travels in Europe frequently and added that it abides by European Union laws, including the Digital Services Act, which aims to ensure a safe and accountable online environment. “Almost a billion users globally use Telegram as means of communication and as a source of vital information,” the app’s statement read. “We’re awaiting a prompt resolution of this situation. Telegram is with you all.” Judicial sources quoted by AFP news agency say Mr Durov’s detention was extended on Sunday and could last as long as 96 hours.