

Pavel Durov
57 snips Apr 16, 2024
Pavel Durov, the founder of the popular messaging app Telegram, shares his remarkable journey from growing up in the Soviet Union to building a platform with over 900 million users. He discusses his commitment to free speech and privacy, emphasizing the challenges faced while navigating censorship in Russia. Durov reveals his experiences with U.S. security agencies and the importance of maintaining operational efficiency in a private company. He contrasts the intricacies of innovating amidst political pressures with the push for user rights and free expression.
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Durov's Exodus
- Pavel Durov left Russia rather than censor political opponents.
- He prioritized freedom of speech, choosing exile over compromising his values.
Telegram's Genesis
- The idea for Telegram originated when armed police tried to enter Durov's home in Russia.
- He realized the need for secure communication after refusing to ban opposition groups.
Headquarters Hunt
- Durov explored Berlin, London, Singapore, and San Francisco for Telegram's headquarters.
- Bureaucratic hurdles and hiring restrictions led him to abandon these locations.