Telegram has reached a significant milestone with over one billion active users, while CEO Pavel Durov criticized WhatsApp, labeling it a 'cheap knockoff.' Durov claims WhatsApp has spent billions on lobbying to undermine Telegram's growth. Despite these challenges, Telegram reported a profit of $547 million in 2024. Durov's comments come after his return from a legal battle in France, where he faced serious allegations, which he vehemently denied. Telegram is also taking steps to address illegal content on its platform, partnering with the Internet Watch Foundation.