Global downloads of Telegram surge following Durov's arrest, reports media
The recent arrest of Telegram founder and CEO Pavel Durov in France has seemingly increased the app's popularity. Read Full Article at RT.com.
On August 26, the number of Telegram downloads on iOS reportedly rose by 4% day-over-day. In France, where Durov was apprehended on Saturday, the app became the leading choice in the social networking category and ranked as the third most downloaded app overall.
In the United States, Telegram climbed to the second position in the top apps chart, not including games, before settling back into third place.
TechCrunch highlighted that the App Store rankings from Apple are influenced by various metrics, including the number of app installs and the speed of downloads.
According to app intelligence firm Appfigures, as cited by TechCrunch, Telegram only secured the second spot in the social networking charts on the US App Store at 3 am EST on Monday, suggesting that the app's surge may be just beginning, although it might be temporary.
French prosecutors have revealed potential charges against Durov.
The Russian entrepreneur was detained upon his arrival at Paris-Le Bourget Airport on Saturday. A French judge has extended his detention twice, with the Paris Public Prosecutor’s Office indicating that he was arrested in connection with a broader criminal investigation involving an unnamed individual.
Prosecutors allege that the 39-year-old, who is a Russian citizen and also holds citizenship in France, the UAE, and St. Kitts and Nevis, may face charges that include complicity in drug dealing and money laundering, as well as aiding in the distribution of child pornography.
Authorities reportedly believe Durov is implicated in various crimes allegedly facilitated through the messaging app due to inadequate moderation.
Telegram, which boasts around 1 billion active monthly users, was founded by Durov and his brother in Russia in 2013. Durov left the country in the mid-2010s and settled in Dubai, obtaining French citizenship in 2021.
James del Carmen contributed to this report for TROIB News