French Government Websites Hit by Cyberattacks Following Durov’s Arrest
Cairo: Hani Kamal El-Din
French government websites have suffered significant cyberattacks following the arrest of Telegram founder Pavel Durov. According to the newspaper Le Parisien, several key websites were targeted, including the National Agency for Medicines and Health Products (ANSM), the Confederation Paysanne union, and the Voix du Nord newspaper. Additionally, there were plans to attack one of France’s government portals.
Durov was arrested in France on August 24, facing accusations related to encrypted messages on his messaging app, Telegram. Reports suggest that he could face up to 20 years in prison due to these allegations.
On August 25, the detention period for Durov was extended. Under French law, the maximum detention period for questioning can be up to 96 hours. This extension has raised numerous questions about Durov’s legal status and has sparked widespread criticism from the international community.
Meanwhile, the European Commission has declined to comment on Durov’s arrest, adding to the complexity and mystery surrounding the case. This development comes at a time when international pressure is mounting on France regarding its handling of privacy and cybersecurity issues.
