Massive Cyberattack Hits French Government Sites Amid Durov Arrest Outcry

Last Updated on August 27, 2024

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Key Takeaways:

  • Arrest and Cyberattacks: French authorities arrested Telegram founder Pavel Durov, coinciding with cyberattacks on key government websites, reportedly linked to a Russian hacker group.
  • Backlash Over Arrest: President Macron defended the arrest, claiming it wasn’t politically motivated, but faced criticism from free speech advocates and the crypto community.
  • Calls for Release: Figures like Vitalik Buterin and Elon Musk have demanded Durov’s release, citing concerns over communication freedom in Europe.

French authorities are facing criticism after the arrest of Telegram founder Pavel Durov, which coincided with cyberattacks on several government websites, including the Administrative Court of Paris and the French Health Department.

These attacks, reportedly linked to a Russian hacker group, led to the disruption of critical websites.

President Macron defended the arrest, emphasizing it was not politically motivated and reaffirming France’s commitment to free speech.

However, his remarks drew backlash, especially from free speech advocates and the crypto community.

Prominent figures like Vitalik Buterin and Elon Musk have called for Durov’s release, expressing concerns over the implications for software and communication freedom in Europe.

As of now, Durov remains in custody for questioning, with no formal charges or evidence of legal wrongdoing presented.

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