Telegram Founder Durov Warns of French Encryption Ban, Citing Threat to User Privacy

Pavel Durov, the founder of Telegram, has issued a stern warning regarding the potential banning of encryption in France. Speaking on his Twitter account, Durov highlighted that French authorities are once again pushing for a law that would require messaging app developers to incorporate a backdoor for police access to private messages. Although a similar law was briefly passed by the Senate last month, it was ultimately rejected by the National Assembly. However, renewed calls from the Paris Police Prefect have reignited concerns over the future of encrypted communications in France. Durov warned that if the law is approved, it could force platforms like Telegram to exit the market rather than compromise on user privacy. He also criticized the notion that such measures would curb criminal activity, arguing that criminals would simply shift to smaller, less regulated apps, further complicating law enforcement efforts. The development adds to broader regulatory debates about digital privacy and the safeguarding of personal data on digital platforms.