Telegram, the encrypted messaging app that has been both praised for its privacy features and criticized for its role in facilitating criminal activities, has announced its first-ever annual profit.

Founded by Pavel Durov, Telegram has seen a surge in popularity, particularly in recent years, as users seek more secure communication platforms. The app has been at the center of numerous controversies, with critics arguing that its strong encryption and anonymity features have made it a haven for criminals involved in activities such as drug trafficking, child exploitation, and terrorism.

Despite these controversies, Telegram has managed to turn a profit. In a post on X (formerly Twitter) and his Telegram channel, Durov revealed that the company generated over $1 billion in revenue this year. This significant financial turnaround can be attributed to the introduction of paid subscription plans and advertising in 2021.

Prior to this, Telegram had been operating as a free service, heavily reliant on funding from Durov and his brother Nikolai. The new revenue streams have allowed the company to pay off a substantial portion of its $2 billion debt.

Telegram now boasts nearly a billion users worldwide, with 12 million of them subscribing to the premium service for a monthly fee of $4.99. While subscription fees contribute to the company's revenue, advertising remains the primary source of income.

The company's valuation has also soared, with the New York Times reporting that Telegram is now worth over $30 billion.

Mounting Pressure and Regulatory Scrutiny

However, Telegram's financial success has been overshadowed by ongoing legal challenges and regulatory scrutiny. The company has faced criticism for its perceived reluctance to cooperate with law enforcement agencies in investigations involving criminal activities conducted on its platform.

In August, Durov was arrested in France on charges of conspiracy in connection with online child sexual abuse and other crimes. Following his arrest, Telegram agreed to take steps to block illegal content and cooperate with law enforcement agencies, signaling a shift in the company's stance on user privacy versus public safety.

Growth in South Korea

Telegram has also experienced significant growth in South Korea, particularly in recent months. The app's monthly active users in South Korea have reached 3.28 million, according to mobile analytics firm iGAWorks. This surge in popularity can be attributed to concerns over censorship and surveillance, as users seek alternative communication platforms that offer greater privacy.

Following the declaration of a state of emergency in South Korea, there was a noticeable increase in new Telegram installations, as users sought to protect their online communications.