Telegram founder slams EU attempts to tighten internet control

Telegram founder Pavel Durov criticized European Union efforts to tighten internet regulation, saying “crazy narratives” are being spread against Telegram.

Durov said the EU is trying to justify increased surveillance and censorship by relying on controlled NGOs and media outlets. He argued that these claims are being used to support stricter measures, including expanded monitoring and regulation of online platforms.

As an example, he pointed to coverage from France 24 suggesting Telegram is being used to distribute harmful content originally shared on other platforms.

According to the France 24 report:

"Many of the images being shared in the groups came from other platforms including TikTok, Instagram or Snapchat.

"Social media platforms or other messaging apps function as sources of raw material, while Telegram appears to serve as a hub for the organisation, amplification, and circulation of abusive content," the authors wrote.

They criticised Telegram for its failure to prevent the groups persisting on its platform."

Durov also responded to claims from AI Forensics, an organization working with the European Commission, which argued Telegram facilitates harmful content by allowing users to discuss material from other social networks in private groups.

Durov further questioned the credibility of such organizations, arguing that public trust declined during the COVID-19 period.