Telegram CEO Pavel Durov Now Charges $99 for Direct Messages

Pavel Durov, the founder and CEO of Telegram, has announced that users can now contact him directly – but there’s a catch: sending a message will cost $99.

According to a post shared by Durov on his personal Telegram channel, each direct message to the CEO requires 5,000 Telegram Stars, equivalent to $99. This steep price has sparked curiosity about whether users will actually pay to reach him.

?Why Does Messaging Pavel Durov Cost $99 

Durov explained that the decision comes as a result of the huge volume of messages he receives daily. By adding a premium cost, he aims to prioritize serious inquiries and filter out spam.

However, regular users still have free options. You can report scams or suspicious activities through Telegram Support at no cost, without paying any fee.

?What Are Telegram Stars

Telegram Stars is the platform’s native virtual currency that can be purchased and used within the app. These tokens are now being integrated into more features, including premium interactions like contacting the CEO.

Rising Issues: Scams and Extortion on Telegram
In his announcement, Durov highlighted a growing issue: scammers and extortionists targeting Telegram users. Previously, unique usernames and rare handles were sold for just a few dollars, but now some fetch over $100,000.

This surge in value has led to malicious practices. Some bad actors pressure users to hand over valuable usernames for free or even engage in extortion by threatening to leak personal information. In extreme cases, these tactics have turned into full-fledged businesses.

How to Report Scammers and Extortion on Telegram
All such activities are illegal, and Telegram encourages users to report them. You can:

Contact Telegram Support for free and submit evidence of extortion attempts.

Alternatively, if you really want to message Pavel Durov directly, you can pay $99 for a personal message.

Key Takeaway
While the idea of messaging Telegram’s CEO sounds exciting, remember that reporting fraud or harassment is 100% free via Telegram Support. Paid messaging is optional and intended for those who want exclusive communication with the platform’s founder.

For more Telegram tips, security updates, and virtual numbers for account verification, visit smsonline.