The Daily cover image

How Telegram Became the Underworld’s Favorite App

The Daily

NOTE

Trolls and Titans: Boldness in the Digital Realm

The rise of Durov mirrors the archetype of a modern tech entrepreneur who embodies both innovation and rebelliousness. His social media venture gains traction and he becomes a figure of fascination, akin to Western tech leaders, particularly juxtaposed against the backdrop of Russian society. This duality is highlighted by his erratic behavior, such as throwing cash from his office and avoiding authorities, which enhances his image as a provocateur. Durov's wealth and influence position him to challenge the status quo, yet his actions attract scrutiny from the Russian authorities, illustrating the tension between burgeoning tech success and governmental control. His defiance is exemplified by a witty social media post in response to demands for user information, signifying an emerging anti-authoritarian stance that may be perilous given the political climate.

00:00
Transcript
Play full episode

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts

Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
App store bannerPlay store banner