Pavel Durov, the mind behind Telegram Messenger, foresees a future where governments' tightening grip on privacy prompts the emergence of secure communication devices akin to cryptocurrency hardware wallets.

In a recent interview with Tucker Carlson, Durov reflected on the escalating trend of government surveillance, citing instances where authorities have clamped down on private communication channels:

"The world is becoming less amenable. Governments are becoming less tolerant of privacy. And that’s clearly the trend because they have more technological power."

However, Durov sees this as a catalyst for innovation in secure communication hardware, drawing parallels to the development of hardware wallets for cryptocurrency storage. He disclosed attempts by the FBI to pressure Telegram affiliates into incorporating backdoors for surveillance purposes.

Durov highlighted the geopolitical neutrality of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as conducive for privacy-focused entrepreneurs, emphasizing the country's desire to maintain neutrality amidst global power struggles.

Discussing his approach to company ownership, Durov emphasized his avoidance of venture capital investments to maintain full control over Telegram's operations. He disclosed significant holdings in both fiat and Bitcoin, enabling him to self-fund projects while retaining 100% ownership.

While Durov has raised funds for certain projects in the past, including a cryptocurrency venture, he remains committed to maintaining independence from external influences.

Durov's concerns about government surveillance echo those of American whistleblower Edward Snowden, who recently warned of the NSA's impending expansion of surveillance powers. Snowden's alert coincides with concerns raised by Elizabeth Goitein regarding potential amendments to surveillance laws that could significantly broaden the government's surveillance reach.