Telegram CEO faces Russia probe over allegations of terrorism facilitation

CoinTelegraph

by Helen Partz

February 24, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Russian authorities have launched a criminal investigation into Pavel Durov, the co-founder and CEO of Telegram, over allegations tied to terrorism facilitation. According to state media reports, Durov is being probed for allegedly refusing to remove 155,000 channels flagged by Russian officials as illegal content. The Federal Security Service (FSB) cited this refusal as a potential violation of anti-terrorism laws, leading to the investigation formally registered in court. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed the case, describing it as part of the FSB’s routine oversight. The case has drawn attention due to Telegram’s history of resisting government demands for data control. In 2018, Durov publicly criticized Russian authorities after they banned the messaging app and targeted its users. The platform is known for its encrypted “secret chats,” which have become a haven for activists, journalists, and crypto enthusiasts. While the FSB has not provided specific details about the flagged channels, many believe the probe could be part of broader efforts to regulate encrypted communication in Russia. This development matters significantly to the crypto community, as Telegram is widely used for coordinating blockchain projects, sharing sensitive information, and facilitating transactions. The platform’s encryption tools have been praised for protecting user privacy but also seen as a challenge for governments seeking to monitor online activities. If Durov faces harsh penalties or Telegram is forced to comply with stricter regulations, it could set a precedent for how加密货币 platforms are treated in Russia—and potentially other nations. The investigation highlights the ongoing tension between encrypted communication and national security concerns. While some argue that refusing to remove flagged channels puts public safety at risk, others see it as a defense of privacy rights. The outcome of this case could shape the future of encryption technology and its role in fostering secure digital spaces for crypto transactions and beyond.

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Originally published on CoinTelegraph on 2/24/2026