Criminal Investigation into Pavel Durov's Activities
Russian authorities have launched a criminal investigation into Telegram founder Pavel Durov, accusing him of facilitating terrorist activity. This case has gained prominence amid a significant rise in crimes linked to the messenger's use within Russia. Since 2022, over 153,000 crimes have been registered in Russia that were committed using Telegram, of which 33,000 were classified as sabotage-terrorist acts, including the organization of explosions, arson attacks on military enlistment offices, and murders.
Telegram's Role in Criminal and Terrorist Acts
According to the FSB, the messenger was used to prepare the Crocus City Hall terrorist attack, as well as to plan the murders of Darya Dugina, Maxim Fomin (Vladlen Tatarsky), and nine Russian military personnel. In light of these circumstances, Roskomnadzor, Russia's media regulator, has for the first time detailed its grievances against Telegram. It accuses the platform of systematically supporting an infrastructure that allows bots and channels to illegally distribute the personal data of Russian citizens in the form of personal dossiers.
This development occurs in a context of heightened tension between the Kremlin and major tech platforms. Previously, it was reported that Russian authorities had reconsidered a decision to block Telegram for the country's military personnel. This indicates the complex and often contradictory situation surrounding the app's use in a country where security concerns are paramount.
The case underscores the Russian government's escalating efforts to control communication platforms it deems a threat to national security. The growing number of crimes associated with Telegram suggests the app has become a primary tool for organizing illegal activities, a trend causing significant alarm within law enforcement. As scrutiny over terrorism and criminality intensifies, the situation's evolution may lead to even stricter state measures to control information technology and communication platforms.