French Prosecutors Investigate Telegram CEO Pavel Durov

Pavel Durov, CEO of Telegram, is under formal investigation by French prosecutors under the new LOPMI law, which criminalizes tech executives for illegal activities on their platforms. This unprecedented law, enacted in January 2023, has yet to result in a conviction and has drawn international attention for its unique legal framework. Durov faces serious charges, including complicity in facilitating illicit transactions, which could lead to a 10-year prison sentence and a €500,000 fine. Despite the allegations, Durov maintains that Telegram complies with EU laws and denies the accusations. The investigation's outcome will be crucial in assessing the law's effectiveness and its implications for tech regulation. Prosecutor Laure Beccuau has praised the law as a vital tool in combating organized online crime, but its application in court remains untested.