Russia opens criminal probe into Telegram CEO as critics defend the app

Russian authorities are reported to be investigating Telegram CEO Pavel Durov for alleged assistance to terrorism, and digital-rights advocates say the move restricts free expression and access to information.

Russia is reported to have opened a criminal investigation into Pavel Durov, the CEO of messaging app Telegram. State media and officials say the inquiry relates to alleged assistance to terrorism. Durov, who lives in the United Arab Emirates, rejected the action and said authorities are inventing reasons to limit access to the app. Digital-rights advocates have criticized the move as a restriction on freedom of expression and information. Key details: - Russian state outlets reported the probe as alleging that Telegram was used to support so-called hybrid threats, and the Federal Security Service is reported to be investigating Durov for alleged assistance to terrorism. - Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the FSB had gathered information on multiple violations and content that could potentially pose a danger, and that relevant agencies are taking measures they deem appropriate. - Pavel Durov dismissed the investigation and responded publicly, and Access Now, a digital-rights group, said the action appears aimed at suppressing freedom of expression and access to information. - Russia's communications regulator recently restricted access to Telegram and other foreign messaging apps while promoting a state-owned alternative called MAX, which the platform says will share user data with authorities. Summary: The reported investigation is part of a broader pattern of Russian measures affecting foreign messaging platforms and has prompted criticism from digital-rights groups about limits on privacy and speech. Undetermined at this time.