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Durov Challenges EU Age-Verification Tool, Citing Security Flaws and Surveillance Risks

Apr 17, 2026 13:15 UTC
Medium term

Telegram CEO Pavel Durov has warned that the European Union's new age-verification system is vulnerable to hacking and could evolve into a broader identity tracking mechanism. The claims follow assertions from the European Commission that the tool is technically ready and preserves user anonymity.

  • Durov alleges the EU app is vulnerable to rapid hacking
  • Security consultant Paul Moore claims the system can be bypassed in under two minutes
  • EU Commission asserts the tool is completely anonymous and ready for use
  • The framework was developed as an open-source project starting in July 2025
  • Durov warns the tool may be a stepping stone for broader online identity tracking

Pavel Durov, CEO of Telegram, has raised alarms regarding the security and intent of the European Union's recently developed age-verification application. Durov argues that the system is 'hackable by design,' suggesting that its vulnerabilities could eventually be used to justify more intrusive digital identity controls across the bloc. The warnings come shortly after European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen declared the tool 'technically ready' for rollout. The EU's framework, first outlined in July 2025, aims to allow users to verify they are over 18 without revealing specific personal data, integrating with European Digital Identity Wallets. Durov pointed to analysis from security consultant Paul Moore, who claimed the app's technical design could be bypassed in under two minutes. Moore warned that the system could be manipulated so that age checks are not accurately linked to the actual user or their device, potentially leading to massive data breaches. This dispute highlights the ongoing tension between EU regulators seeking to protect minors and tech leaders advocating for digital privacy. While the EU maintains the system is anonymous and privacy-respecting, critics fear it serves as a catalyst for a wider surveillance infrastructure targeting social media users across Europe.

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