Kremlin Urges Telegram Owner Pavel Durov to Heighten Vigilance

Russia’s Kremlin issued a cautionary message to Pavel Durov, owner of the messaging application Telegram, following allegations that the platform was utilized in the recruitment of gunmen responsible for an attack on a concert hall near Moscow.

Background on Telegram and Pavel Durov:

Telegram, founded by Pavel Durov, has become a prominent messaging platform globally. Durov, a Russian-born entrepreneur, relocated to Dubai in 2014 after relinquishing control of his previous company. He currently holds dual citizenship in the UAE and France.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov emphasized Durov’s attentiveness in managing Telegram, highlighting its growing utilization by terrorist elements. 

While affirming that there are no immediate plans to block the messaging app, Peskov urged Durov to exercise greater vigilance in curbing malicious activities on the platform.

Durov’s Response:

In response to the concerns raised, Durov announced measures to mitigate the dissemination of violent content on Telegram. 

Immediate actions were taken to intercept and block messages inciting violence, preventing thousands of such attempts. 

Additionally, Durov outlined forthcoming features, including the ability for users to limit personal message recipients and the introduction of AI mechanisms to filter unwanted communication.

Commitment to Security and Prevention:

Durov reiterated Telegram’s commitment to ensuring a secure and safe platform, emphasizing a zero-tolerance policy towards spam and violent content. 

The platform aims to implement proactive measures to combat misuse and maintain a conducive user environment.