Telegram founder Pavel Durov is reportedly under criminal investigation in Russia

Engadget

by Mariella Moon

February 24, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Pavel Durov, the founder of Telegram, is facing a criminal investigation in Russia for allegedly aiding terrorist activities, according to state-run publications. The Financial Times reports that Russian authorities accuse Durov of enabling attacks against Russia and claim Telegram has become an intelligence tool for NATO and Ukraine. This comes after Russia banned Telegram alongside WhatsApp earlier this month, likely to push users toward the state-controlled app, Max. Despite the ban, Telegram remains critical for communication among Russian military personnel, with前线operations relying on it for coordination, including warnings about drone and missile attacks. The investigation marks a significant escalation in tensions between Durov and Russian authorities. State media outlets, citing Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB), allege that Telegram intercepts location data, sells secret information, and intimidates soldiers and their families. Rossiiskaya Gazeta describes digital platforms like Telegram as “strategic weapons” in modern conflicts. These claims align with broader efforts by Russia to control information flows and limit the influence of independent communication tools. Durov has not yet responded to the allegations but previously criticized Russia’s ban on Telegram, calling it an attempt to force citizens onto state-controlled apps designed for surveillance and censorship. Born in Russia and co-founder of the country’s largest social network, VK, Durov left after facing pressure from the Kremlin to sell his stake. His current stance against Russian policies highlights ongoing tensions between independent tech figures and authoritarian regimes. This situation underscores the growing role of messaging apps as tools of both communication and conflict. For tech enthusiasts, it raises questions about the balance between privacy, security, and geopolitical influence in digital platforms. As Russia seeks to tighten control over information, cases like Durov’s highlight the broader implications for global tech governance and free expression.

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Originally published on Engadget on 2/24/2026