About
Pavel Durov is a technology entrepreneur. He is widely recognized as the founder of the social networking site VK (VKontakte) and the messaging app Telegram. Durov is known for his emphasis on user privacy and security, particularly with Telegram. He has often spoken out against government censorship and surveillance.
Career Timeline
Launches VKontakte social network
Durov creates VK, which quickly becomes Russia's dominant social network. The platform's rapid growth establishes him as a major tech entrepreneur in the Russian internet landscape.
VK dominates Russian social media
VKontakte reaches 100 million users, cementing its position as the leading social network in Russia and CIS countries. Durov's wealth and influence grow substantially as the platform's value soars.
Telegram messaging app launched
Durov launches Telegram with a focus on security and privacy. The app gains early adoption among tech-savvy users seeking encrypted communication, diversifying his portfolio beyond VK.
Forced out of VK, flees Russia
After refusing government demands for user data and censorship, Durov is ousted from VK and leaves Russia. His stand against government surveillance makes him an international symbol of digital freedom and privacy advocacy.
Russia blocks Telegram
Russia attempts to block Telegram after Durov refuses to provide encryption keys. The ban fails technically, and the controversy drives massive global growth for Telegram, elevating Durov's status as a tech visionary.
Telegram surges to 500M users
Telegram's user base explodes amid privacy concerns about WhatsApp and other platforms. Durov becomes a billionaire tech icon, compared to early-stage Zuckerberg, as Telegram emerges as a major global messaging platform.
Arrested in France, released
French authorities briefly arrest Durov over Telegram's content moderation policies, sparking international debate. The incident reinforces his image as a defender of digital freedom, though it also highlights regulatory challenges.
Global tech icon
Durov is recognized worldwide as the visionary behind Telegram, which has become one of the most important messaging platforms globally with over 900 million users. He's celebrated as a champion of privacy and free speech, commanding influence comparable to Musk or Zuckerberg in tech circles. His uncompromising stance on encryption and user rights has made him a legendary figure in the digital age.
Related Celebrities
Last updated: February 23, 2026