Overview

• French authorities have charged Telegram CEO Pavel Durov with complicity in crimes including child exploitation and drug trafficking.
• Durov was detained at Le Bourget airport and released on €5 million bail, but he cannot leave France during the investigation.
• The case has sparked debate on the extent of responsibility tech executives should have for user activities on their platforms.
• Experts warn that the charges could impact Telegram's financial viability and user trust, particularly in regions valuing privacy.
• Tech leaders like Elon Musk have criticized the investigation, viewing it as a threat to free speech and privacy.