Pavel Durov's arrest boosts Telegram downloads: Most downloaded in France

Following the arrest of Telegram founder Pavel Durov in Paris, the application's download rates worldwide have increased significantly.

As reported by TechCrunch, following the arrest that took place on August 24, Telegram rose to the top spot in the App Store's social networking category, particularly in France.

In the US, it briefly held the second spot before dropping to third.

According to data from the analytics firm Sensor Tower, as of August 26, the number of Telegram downloads on the iOS platform worldwide showed a 4% increase compared to the previous day. In France, the application became the leader in the social networking category and placed third in the overall application rankings.

In the US, Telegram ranked third in the social networking category and rose from 18th to 8th place in the App Store's overall rankings. This was the highest position Telegram has achieved in the App Store since at least January 1, 2023.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Pavel Durov was detained at Paris Le Bourget Airport on August 24 when he arrived from Baku on a private flight. Those accompanying Durov were released after questioning, but the detention period for the Telegram founder was extended until August 28.

The charges brought against Durov include serious allegations such as refusing to cooperate with authorities, complicity in the possession and distribution of pornographic images of minors, drug trafficking, and fraud.

French President Emmanuel Macron stated that Durov's arrest was not politically motivated. Telegram, for its part, emphasized that they comply with EU laws and stated that Durov has “nothing to hide.”

Russia and the United Arab Emirates have demanded that Durov's rights be protected and that he be granted consular access.

Pavel Durov's arrest has sparked widespread debate regarding both international legal processes and the security of digital platforms.

The increase in Telegram's download rates shows that the platform can maintain its popularity even during such moments of crisis and that user trust remains intact. However, how the charges against Durov will be resolved and the future of Telegram remain a subject of curiosity.