Telegram CEO Temporarily Free: Pavel Durov Returns to Dubai Amid Investigation Drama

Pavel Durov, CEO and founder of Telegram, has been permitted by French authorities to temporarily leave the country despite an ongoing criminal investigation into the messaging platform’s misuse for illegal activities. Earlier today, Durov confirmed via Telegram that he had returned to Dubai, marking a significant development in a case closely watched around the world.

Durov’s Brief Reprieve: From France to Dubai

Durov departed France from Le Bourget Airport near Paris, according to a recent Bloomberg report citing officials from the Paris prosecutor’s office. This move was authorized as a temporary suspension of the judicial travel restriction originally imposed on him. The suspension is effective from March 15 to April 7, granting Durov a window to leave French jurisdiction briefly.

“As you may have heard, I’ve returned to Dubai after spending several months in France due to an investigation related to the activity of criminals on Telegram,” Durov shared with users on the messaging platform. “The process is ongoing, but it feels great to be home.”

Expressing gratitude, Durov thanked investigative judges, his legal team, and Telegram staff for their dedication, emphasizing the platform’s consistent efforts in moderation, crime prevention, and cooperation with law enforcement.

Background of the Criminal Investigation

The case against Durov originated in August 2024, when French authorities arrested him at Le Bourget Airport. The arrest stemmed from allegations that Telegram had become a hub for fraudulent activities, drug trafficking, and distribution of illegal content. Following his arrest, Durov was released on bail set at €5 million (approximately $5.6 million) but was required to stay within French borders pending the investigation.

Now Open: Pan-India Registration for Scam Reporters & Fraud Investigators!

Changes in Telegram’s Privacy and Security Policies

Telegram reacted swiftly in response to legal pressures. A significant policy update announced in September 2024 indicated that the platform would share users’ sensitive information, such as phone numbers and IP addresses, with law enforcement upon receiving valid legal requests backed by court orders. Initially, Telegram limited such cooperation primarily to terrorism-related cases.

Additionally, Telegram has enhanced its search functionality, historically misused for promoting illegal products. “Telegram Search is meant for finding friends and discovering news, not for promoting illegal goods,” Durov emphasized. He assured the community that the platform remains committed to safeguarding user integrity and preventing misuse.

Cooperation with Law Enforcement

In January 2025, Telegram disclosed that it had shared phone numbers or IP address details of 2,253 users with law enforcement, responding to approximately 900 requests from U.S. authorities alone. This marked a notable shift towards increased transparency and cooperation with legal processes worldwide.

Telegram’s Continued Growth

Despite legal challenges, Telegram continues its rapid growth trajectory. As of July 2024, the platform reported reaching 950 million monthly active users. By September, it had accumulated over 10 million paid subscribers, signaling the messaging service’s enduring popularity and commercial success amid legal scrutiny.

Future of the Investigation

Although Durov is temporarily allowed outside France, the ongoing investigation raises questions about Telegram’s future compliance with global law enforcement standards. Observers remain attentive to developments, as outcomes could significantly impact digital privacy standards and responsibilities of messaging platforms worldwide.

As authorities continue their investigation, Telegram’s commitment to combating criminal activities remains under close scrutiny. Durov’s brief return to Dubai symbolizes temporary relief, but the messaging platform’s broader legal challenges persist, reflecting an ongoing global debate about security, privacy, and digital governance.

Follow The420.in on

 Telegram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube