founder Pavel Durov Archives

AppWizard

February 13, 2026

Russia says it has blocked WhatsApp amid wider clampdown on social media

Russia has confirmed the blocking of WhatsApp, directing citizens to use the state-supported Max app due to alleged violations of the law by Meta, the parent company of WhatsApp. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated the decision was influenced by Meta's reluctance to comply with Russian regulations. WhatsApp claimed the move aims to push users towards a state-owned surveillance alternative and emphasized the negative impact on user safety. While some users accessed WhatsApp via VPNs, the Kremlin restricted access to 439 VPN services and banned advertising for such tools. Russia has previously imposed restrictions on WhatsApp and Telegram, citing criminal activity concerns. Additionally, Russia has banned other major platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and X. The Max app is designed as a super-app, integrating various services, but has faced criticism over safety and privacy concerns. The government also announced further restrictions on Telegram, citing the need to protect Russian citizens.

AppWizard

February 11, 2026

Kremlin regrets Telegram restrictions but some say messenger’s fate is sealed in Russia

The Kremlin expressed regret over recent restrictions imposed on Telegram, with spokesman Dmitry Peskov stating that the limitations are due to the company's non-compliance with Russian laws. Peskov indicated that it is unfortunate Telegram is not adhering to these regulations. Reports emerged that Russian users experienced disruptions in Telegram services, with over 11,000 complaints logged in a 24-hour period, leading to Roskomnadzor initiating restrictions. The Federal Service for Supervision of Communications confirmed it would impose consistent restrictions on Telegram until it complies with Russian legislation. Telegram may face fines totaling 64 million rubles due to alleged failures to remove illegal content. Telegram founder Pavel Durov criticized the government's actions, suggesting they aim to push users towards a state-controlled app. Analysts noted that Durov's stance could hinder potential cooperation with Russian authorities and that a complete ban on Telegram might occur by mid-March unless a resolution is reached. Durov, who has lived outside Russia for over a decade, indicated that Telegram stands for freedom of speech and privacy.

AppWizard

September 4, 2025

Russia promotes ‘national messenger’ to vanquish WhatsApp in fresh crackdown

Russian government minister Maksut Shadayev expressed concerns to President Vladimir Putin about foreign messaging apps like WhatsApp and proposed creating a "fully Russian messenger." Putin supported this idea and signed a law establishing a national messenger service, granting the status to the app Max, developed by VKontakte (VK). Roskomnadzor has begun restricting services like Telegram and WhatsApp due to their involvement in harmful activities, marking a significant effort to limit online freedoms since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Digital rights activists worry Max could facilitate government surveillance as it lacks end-to-end encryption, allowing data storage on VK's servers and sharing with law enforcement. Max's user base grew from 1 million to 30 million following a marketing campaign, and schools are now required to use it for official communications. Putin's administration is working to limit software from countries deemed unfriendly, putting WhatsApp's future in Russia in jeopardy. The status of Telegram remains uncertain, as the state has previously attempted to ban it but now utilizes it for communication. Recent legislation has criminalized searching for "extremist materials" and mandated migrant workers to install a surveillance app.

AppWizard

April 24, 2025

Technology behind private messaging app Telegram names Maximilian…

The TON Foundation will announce Maximilian Crown as its new CEO on Thursday. This appointment aims to stabilize Telegram, which has a user base of one billion, following the arrest of its founder Pavel Durov in Paris last year. Crown's leadership is seen as a significant step for Telegram, demonstrating its commitment to expanding its multi-functional app amid governmental pressures to access user data. Crown has experience as CFO and COO of MoonPay and has successfully secured operational approvals across various countries. Telegram has transformed into a “Super App,” integrating features such as gaming, shopping, and payment functionalities. The Telegram Open Network (TON) has 41 million active accounts and 121 million Toncoin holders. Toncoin's value is tied to Telegram's fortunes, experiencing fluctuations following Durov's arrest. Concerns have been raised regarding the impact of French authorities' actions on Telegram’s blockchain initiatives, especially related to digital privacy and government oversight. Durov was detained for 96 hours and criticized the scrutiny faced by Telegram, warning against legislative efforts that threaten individual freedoms.

AppWizard

March 9, 2025

Dagestan, Chechnya block Telegram messaging app

Authorities in Russia's Dagestan and Chechnya have banned the messaging app Telegram, citing concerns over its content moderation policies and the proliferation of extremist content. This decision is part of a broader trend of increasing governmental control over online communications in the region. Anton Nemkin from the State Duma expressed that Telegram's lax moderation poses a threat to public safety, and local official Gamzatov indicated there may be potential for the app's reinstatement in the future. The Russian government has previously blocked other messaging services like Signal and is considering actions against WhatsApp, while access to platforms like YouTube has also been restricted. Additionally, Telegram has faced scrutiny outside Russia, including a ban for officials in Ukraine due to national security concerns linked to its founder Pavel Durov.

AppWizard

August 31, 2024

Far-right groups in Scotland blocked from Telegram app days after arrest

Telegram has begun removing chat channels associated with far-right groups, particularly in Scotland, as part of an effort to enhance moderation on the platform. The Active Club network is among those targeted for removal. Telegram founder Pavel Durov is under investigation by French police for allegations that criminal gangs are using the platform. Telegram has removed UK-based channels that spread calls to violence as part of standard moderation efforts. Durov was detained in Paris and released after questioning, but remains under judicial supervision facing multiple charges, including complicity in the distribution of child abuse images. Telegram asserts compliance with EU laws and claims its moderation practices are evolving to meet industry standards.

AppWizard

August 29, 2024

Telegram founder Pavel Durov facing charges over allowing criminal activity on messaging app

Pavel Durov, CEO of Telegram, was arrested at Le Bourget airport near Paris and released on €5 million bail, but is barred from leaving France amid a legal investigation into allegations of criminal activity linked to the platform. He faces serious accusations, including allowing the distribution of child sexual abuse material and facilitating organized crime activities. French authorities claim Telegram has been uncooperative in providing necessary information for the investigation. Durov is facing preliminary charges, suggesting there are substantial grounds to believe a crime has occurred, yet this stage does not automatically lead to a trial. In response to the allegations, Telegram asserts its compliance with EU laws and defends its moderation practices. Durov's arrest has led to protests in Russia, with some officials claiming it is politically motivated. French President Emmanuel Macron stated that the arrest is not politically motivated and emphasized the importance of freedom of expression within a legal framework. Telegram, founded by Durov, has nearly a billion users and has faced criticism for its lack of content moderation, leading to exploitation by criminal elements. The German government previously fined Telegram €5.1 million for failing to comply with regulations on illegal content.

AppWizard

August 28, 2024

Telegram messaging app chief freed from custody ahead of court appearance

Pavel Durov, co-founder of Telegram, was detained at Le Bourget airport near Paris as part of a judicial inquiry involving twelve alleged criminal violations, including the distribution of child sexual abuse material, drug trafficking, fraud, and organized crime facilitation. An investigating judge has concluded his police custody and will present him in court for an initial appearance. Durov, a French citizen originally from Russia, faces backlash in Russia, with officials claiming the arrest is politically motivated. French President Emmanuel Macron stated the arrest is part of an independent investigation. Telegram released a statement asserting its compliance with EU laws and improving moderation practices. Durov holds citizenship in the UAE and St Kitts and Nevis, and the UAE Foreign Ministry is monitoring the case. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov expressed hope for Durov's legal defense opportunities. Telegram, founded by Durov and his brother, has nearly a billion users and has faced criticism for its moderation policies.

AppWizard

August 27, 2024

No messaging app is reliable Kremlin

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that the Russian presidential administration does not use messenger applications for official correspondence due to information security concerns. He emphasized that "no messenger is reliable" for safeguarding sensitive communications. Peskov denied rumors that officials were directed to delete messages for security reasons. This statement follows the arrest of Telegram founder Pavel Durov in France, who faces preliminary charges related to illegal activities on his platform. The Kremlin has not commented extensively on Durov's arrest, while Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov suggested that the situation underscores Telegram's security. French President Emmanuel Macron stated that Durov's detention is part of an ongoing judicial investigation and not politically motivated. Telegram has denied any wrongdoing, asserting compliance with EU regulations. The incident has drawn criticism from various leaders, viewing the arrest as an infringement on free speech.

AppWizard

August 26, 2024

Messaging App Telegram says founder Pavel Durov has ‘nothing to hide’ after arrest

The account creation process requires users to be at least 18 years old to establish an account, ensuring compliance with legal standards. The interface includes mandatory fields, such as the year of birth, to prevent underage registrations. Users can either create an account or postpone the decision, and returning users can sign in easily. By clicking the 'Create Account' button, users confirm their information is accurate and acknowledge the site's Terms of Use, Cookie Policy, and Privacy Policy. The platform uses reCAPTCHA technology to enhance security and adheres to Google's Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.