TECH – Telegram, the messaging app founded by Pavel Durov, has recently surpassed one billion active users, solidifying its position as the world’s second-largest messaging platform after WhatsApp. This milestone comes amid growing concerns over digital privacy and increased scrutiny of encryption practices. In a statement on his Telegram channel, Durov criticized WhatsApp, labeling it as a “cheap and irrelevant imitation” of Telegram. He emphasized Telegram’s commitment to user privacy and security, contrasting it with WhatsApp’s perceived vulnerabilities.
Durov’s comments coincide with legislative developments in France, where a proposed law aimed to ban end-to-end encryption in messaging apps to combat organized crime. The French National Assembly ultimately rejected the bill, a decision Durov praised as a victory for digital privacy rights. He warned that such legislation could set a dangerous precedent, stating, “Even countries considered less free have not banned encryption.”
Read More: OpenAI Launches GPT-4.1 with Enhanced Coding and Context Capabilities
Earlier this year, Durov was briefly detained in France on allegations of facilitating organized crime through Telegram. He was subsequently released and returned to Dubai, where Telegram is headquartered. The incident underscores the challenges faced by messaging platforms in balancing user privacy with regulatory compliance. Telegram’s growth reflects a broader trend of users seeking alternatives to mainstream messaging apps amid privacy concerns. The platform’s emphasis on encryption and resistance to government surveillance appeals to users wary of data breaches and unauthorized access.
As digital communication becomes increasingly integral to daily life, the debate over encryption and privacy rights continues to evolve. Telegram’s rise highlights the demand for secure messaging options and the ongoing tension between technological innovation and regulatory oversight.
Source: detikinet
