Background and Investigation Details
According to multiple reports from Russian media, Telegram founder Pavel Durov is under criminal investigation by Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) for allegedly aiding terrorist activities under Article 205.1, Part 1.1 of the Russian Criminal Code.
Nature of the Charges
The probe centers on the spread of illegal content on Telegram. Russian communications regulators accuse the platform’s management of ignoring requests to remove banned channels and chats. Investigators also allege that Telegram has been used to distribute materials linked to extremist and terrorist groups.
Regulatory Tensions and Response
Since the summer of 2025, Russian regulators have been restricting Telegram’s services, citing fraudulent activity. By February 2026, additional bandwidth restrictions were imposed due to the platform's noncompliance with local laws. Durov previously responded by stating that Telegram remains committed to protecting free speech and privacy.
- Criminal investigation launched by FSB
- Platform accused of hosting terror-related content
- Regulatory pressure has increased over time