Telegram, the controversial privacy-focused messaging platform, is on track to turn a profit for the first time in its history. This turn of events follows the arrest of Telegram's founder Pavel Durov in France over charges of facilitating illegal activities on the platform.

A long time supporter of free speech, Durov has denied all charges and claims that holding Telegram accountable for its users' actions is ridiculous. Durov was further charged with not cooperating with authorities after his claim. In a show of support after his arrest Telegram downloads soared through the roof and it briefly secured second place in the U.S. App Store under the social apps category.

After Durov's arrest however, Telegram has been changing its stance on certain policies. For starters Telegram will now provide user data to authorities including IP addresses and phone numbers. The platform has also been experimenting with subscriptions and advertising which is a major reason for its profitability this year.