Russian lawmakers warn against Telegram payments amid FSB accusations

On July 29, 2026, Russian State Duma members recommended that citizens temporarily refrain from making purchases or financial transactions through Telegram. This follows accusations by Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) against Telegram founder Pavel Durov. Durov responded to the FSB's allegations with an old meme, and Telegram's official account also reacted to the accusations. The lawmakers' advice appears to be a precautionary measure amid the ongoing dispute between Telegram and Russian authorities.