Pavel Durov’s controversial life: From ‘Russian Zuckerberg’ to ‘father of 100+ kids’, now arrested in France



Russian-born tech entrepreneur Pavel Durov, the person dubbed the “Russian Zuckerberg” for his creation of the VKontakte (VK) social community and Telegram messaging service, was arrested at a Paris airport this weekend. The 39-year-old faces authorized challenges in France over alleged legal actions linked to Telegram, together with fraud, drug trafficking, cyberbullying, and selling terrorism.
From VKontakte to Telegram: A controversial journey
Durov, who shot to fame in his twenties with VKontakte, a social community that outpaced Fb within the former USSR, has lengthy been a polarizing determine, reported Reuters.His refusal to adjust to Russian authorities led to his departure from VKontakte in 2014 and the next launch of Telegram. The messaging service, recognized for its robust encryption and stance towards censorship, rapidly gained world recognition however has confronted criticism for allegedly internet hosting excessive content material.
Unconventional stunts and libertarian views
Durov’s unconventional conduct features a 2012 stunt the place he showered high-denomination notes on pedestrians from VKontakte’s headquarters. A self-declared libertarian, he champions web confidentiality and refuses to average content material on Telegram, additional complicating his relationship with world authorities.
Authorized troubles and private revelations
Durov’s latest arrest follows a French warrant concentrating on him for numerous offences reportedly linked to actions on Telegram. The French gendarmerie’s cyber unit and the nationwide anti-fraud workplace are dealing with the case. Durov, who settled in Dubai and later acquired French nationality, stays in police custody.
Along with his enterprise ventures, Durov has made headlines for private claims, together with reportedly boasting about fathering over 100 kids via sperm donations. Regardless of his fortune, estimated at $15.5 billion by Forbes, his cryptocurrency, toncoin, has seen a major decline following information of his arrest.
Telegram’s position in world conflicts
Telegram’s position in world points, together with Russia’s battle towards Ukraine, has drawn consideration. The platform’s channels are utilized by each pro-Moscow and anti-Moscow factions, highlighting its controversial affect in geopolitical issues.
The way forward for Telegram
As Durov’s authorized battles proceed, the way forward for Telegram and its controversial position within the digital age stay unsure. Durov’s ongoing authorized points and the platform’s contentious place in world politics might have lasting impacts on each his fortune and the messaging service’s fame.





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